Glutamine, exercise, and the immune system--is there a link?

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Exercise Physiology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Glutamine is a critical amino acid for rapidly dividing cells, including immune cells.
• Plasma glutamine levels decrease during catabolic states, such as intense exercise.
• This reduction may impair immune cell function, contributing to postexercise immunosuppression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of glutamine in modulating in-vitro immune parameters following exercise.
• To evaluate glutamine as a nutritional supplement for athletes concerning immune function.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies examining glutamine's effects on immune cells.
• Analysis of research on exercise-induced changes in plasma glutamine concentrations.
• Evaluation of existing data on glutamine supplementation in athletes.

Main Results:

• Exercise can transiently decrease plasma glutamine levels.
• Glutamine availability is crucial for optimal immune cell proliferation and function.
• Supplementation may mitigate exercise-induced immune disturbances.

Conclusions:

• Glutamine plays a significant role in maintaining immune homeostasis, particularly after strenuous exercise.
• Nutritional strategies involving glutamine supplementation warrant consideration for athletes to support immune function.