Changes in the helper and suppressor lymphocytes in human peripheral blood following maximal physical exercise

Lymphocyte subpopulations and Con A activated suppressors were measured before, immediately after maximal physical effort on bicycle ergometer and after two-hour recovery. The investigations were performed on healthy male volunteers, trained male and female cyclist, nearly at the same age. The measured parameters of maximal effort were comparable in all investigated groups. The significant increase in T8+ (suppressor cytotoxic) cells and moderate increase in T4+ (helper inducer) cells was observed after maximal physical effort; these changes were accompanied by a significant diminution of a T4+/T8+ ratio. Two-hour recovery resulted in the normalization of the investigated parameters. The functional test based on Con A-induced suppressor activity has revealed the divergence, a decrease in Con A-induced suppressor cell activity was noted after maximal effort.