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Exercise-induced elevation in plasma oxidative generating capability augments the temporal inflammatory response
Suzanne Maria Hurst1, K A Lyall, R D Hurst
1Functional Food and Health Group, The New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research Ltd., Private Bag 3123, East Street, Hamilton, New Zealand. rhurst@hortresearch.co.nz
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|June 9, 2009
Summary
Regular exercise transiently increases oxidative stress, enhancing immune cells' ability to respond to pathogens. This suggests that moderate oxidative stress from exercise supports a healthy immune system.
Area of Science:
- Exercise physiology
- Immunology
- Oxidative stress research
Background:
- Prolonged oxidative stress is harmful, but transient oxidative stress may boost immune function.
- The impact of exercise-induced oxidative stress on immune responsiveness requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if exercise-induced increases in plasma oxidative generating capability enhance immune responsiveness to pathogens.
- To investigate the effects of exercise on plasma oxidative stress markers and immune cell function.
Main Methods:
- Twelve participants completed a 30-minute rowing exercise.
- Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise for oxidative stress and immune assessments.
- Plasma oxidative generating capability was measured using a modified dihydro-2",7"-dichlorohydrofluorescein (DCF) assay.
- Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation was used to assess immune cell responses, including cytokine secretion (e.g., TNF-alpha).
Main Results:
- Exercise induced a transient increase in plasma carbonyls and creatine kinase activity.
- Post-exercise plasma showed a significantly increased radical oxygen species (ROS) generating capability when exposed to hydrogen peroxide.
- LPS stimulation of immune cells pre-incubated with post-exercise plasma or pro-oxidants modulated temporal cytokine secretion, indicating enhanced immune responsiveness.
- This enhanced response was partially inhibited by N-acetyl-L-cysteine, suggesting a role for ROS.
Conclusions:
- Exercise-induced transient oxidative stress enhances plasma oxidative generating capability.
- These changes augment the immune system's temporal response to pathogens like LPS.
- Regular, transient oxidative stress from exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.
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