A recent study conducted by Harvard Medical School has shed light on the connection between exercise and inflammation. The study, which was published in Science Immunology, suggests that the immune system plays a crucial role in the numerous health benefits of exercise. By studying mice, researchers found that muscle inflammation caused by exercise triggers the activation of inflammation-countering T cells, also known as Tregs. These Tregs enhance the muscles’ ability to use energy as fuel and improve overall exercise endurance.
Tregs have long been known for their role in countering abnormal inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases. However, this study reveals their involvement in the body’s immune responses during exercise. Although the findings were observed in mice, further studies are needed to replicate the results in humans.
The study contributes to the ongoing efforts to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind exercise and its health benefits. The positive effects of exercise, such as protection against cardiovascular disease, reduced diabetes risk, and improved cognitive function, are well-established. However, the exact ways in which exercise promotes overall health have been a topic of curiosity among researchers.
Previous studies on exercise physiology have focused primarily on the role of hormones released during exercise and their impact on various organs. In contrast, this study provides insight into the immunological changes that occur within the muscle during exercise.
Exercise is known to cause temporary muscle damage, leading to inflammation. During exercise, genes that regulate muscle structure, metabolism, and mitochondrial activity are activated. Mitochondria play a vital role in meeting the increased energy demands of exercise.
The researchers analyzed muscle cells taken from mice that ran on a treadmill, both once and regularly, and compared them to muscle cells from sedentary mice. In both groups of exercise-induced mice, higher levels of Treg cells were observed, indicating a decrease in inflammation caused by exercise. However, the metabolic and performance benefits of exercise were only evident in the mice that regularly exercised. These mice not only exhibited reduced inflammation and muscle damage, but also saw improvements in muscle metabolism and performance.
Further analysis confirmed that Tregs were responsible for the broader benefits seen in regular exercisers. Animals that lacked Tregs experienced uncontrolled muscle inflammation, abnormal metabolism, and diminished aerobic fitness. This discovery highlights the crucial role of Tregs in adapting to the demands of regular exercise.
Previous research has identified interferon, a chemical that promotes inflammation, as a major driver of chronic inflammation. In this study, it was found that interferon acts directly on muscle fibers to disrupt mitochondrial function and limit energy production. Blocking interferon in mice lacking Tregs prevented metabolic abnormalities and improved aerobic fitness.
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of exercise in harnessing the body’s immune defenses and reducing inflammation. Exercise may serve as a natural way to boost immune responses and counter inflammation. While there are ongoing efforts to develop interventions targeting Tregs for specific immune-mediated diseases, exercise offers an additional avenue to combat inflammation. The researchers also suggest that exercise may have broader effects on Treg activity in other parts of the body, contributing to its overall health benefits.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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