Study Examines Mechanism Behind Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Exercise
According to a new study, one 20-minute round of exercise decreases inflammatory responses in the body, which could benefit patients with chronic inflammatory conditions.1
The study included 47 healthy volunteers who performed moderate intensity exercise in the form of treadmill walking for 20 minutes. Researchers collected blood samples to examine the effects of exercise-induced catecholamine production on LPS-stimulated TNF production by monocytes.
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In addition, researchers performed in vitro investigations on the effects of β-agonist isoproterenol and endogenous β- and α-agonists epinephrine and norepinephrine, and receptor-subtype-specific β- and α-antagonists on TNF production.
Flow cytometry showed that LPS-stimulated TNF production by peripheral blood monocytes occurred within the cells. The percentages of TNF-producing monocytes, and TNF production per-cell was prevented by exercise with and without LPS. “Percent TNF-producing monocytes and per-cell TNF production with and without LPS was suppressed by exercise with moderate to large effects, which was reversed by a β2-AR antagonist in spite that plasma TNF levels did not change.”
Researchers found that in vitro, the inhibition of TNF production by exercise was mirrored by β-AR agonists, and dependent on the high concentrations of isoproterenol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.
“"Our study shows a workout session doesn't actually have to be intense to have anti-inflammatory effects. Twenty minutes to half-an-hour of moderate exercise, including fast walking, appears to be sufficient," the researchers concluded. "Feeling like a workout needs to be at a peak exertion level for a long duration can intimidate those who suffer from chronic inflammatory diseases and could greatly benefit from physical activity."2
"Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases should always consult with their physician regarding the appropriate treatment plan, but knowing that exercise can act as an anti-inflammatory is an exciting step forward in possibilities."
—Melissa Weiss
References:
- Dimitrov S, Hulteng E, and Hong S. Inflammation and exercise: inhibition of monocytic intracellular TNF production by acute exercise via β2-adrenergic activation [published online December 21, 2016]. Brain, Behavoir, and Immunity. doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2016.12.017.
- University of California-San Diego. Exercise ... It does a body good: 20 minutes can act as anti-inflammatory [press release]. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-01/uoc--ei011217.php. January 12, 2017.