International Journal of Preventive Medicine · Oct 2026
Impact of Eight Weeks of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation versus Resistance Training on MicroRNA Profiles, Liver Enzyme Levels, and Body Composition in Men with Overweight or Obesity
By Haghgoo H, Minasian V, Hovsepian S
Background: The application of whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is aimed at sustaining or developing skeletal muscle, while also improving body composition. Nonetheless, there is limited research on the molecular mechanisms triggered by EMS on circulating microRNAs. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of WB-EMS compared to resistance training (RT) on microRNAs, liver enzyme levels, and body composition in men with overweight/obesity. Methods: Forty-five men with overweight/obesity were randomized into three groups: high-frequency WB-EMS training (BMI; 31.1 (kg/m ² ), n = 15), RT (BMI; 29.3 (kg/m ² ), n = 15), and control (BMI; 30.9 (kg/m ² ), n = 15). The WB-EMS intervention (85 Hz, two sessions per week) and RT protocol (65%–80% of one-repetition maximum [1 RM]) were conducted for 24 sessions. Body composition, liver enzymes (alanine transaminase [SGPT], aspartate transaminase [SGOT], alkaline phosphatase [ALP]), inflammation markers (C-reactive protein [CRP]), and miRNAs (mir-935, mir-4772) were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Both intervention groups significantly reduced body mass and body mass index (BMI) compared to the control group ( P < 0.05). WB-EMS decreased body fat percentage, while RT increased fat-free mass ( P < 0.05). Liver enzymes (SGPT, SGOT, and ALP) and CRP levels significantly declined in both training groups. RT led to greater gains in strength ( P < 0.05) and significant decrease in mir-935 expression, with no change in mir-4772 expression across groups. Conclusions: In this study, miRNA-935 significantly decreased in RT ( P = 0.005), while remained unchanged in both control ( P = 0.259) and high-frequency EMS training groups ( P = 0.571). However, miR-4772 did not change in all three groups ( P > 0.05). Both high-frequency WB-EMS and RT improved body composition and metabolic health in men with overweight/obesity. RT offers additional benefits in miRNA regulation, while WB-EMS may provide a viable alternative for individuals unable to perform traditional RT.