Plain language summary
As age advances, a gradual deterioration of immune function happens termed Immunosenescence, where different components of the immune system make a behavioural shift towards gradual decline. Immune ageing is characterized by changes in the ratio of naive memory T cells and CD4:CD8 and is associated with inflammatory cytokine production, which accelerates inflammatory ageing. This randomised controlled trial aimed to examine the effect of low-dose combined resistance and endurance training on the ageing immune system and inflammation in elderly subjects. Thirty participants (between the ages of 65 and 75) took part in a controlled low-threshold and care-oriented combined resistance and endurance training program for six weeks. This study showed an increase in CD4:CD8 ratio, decrease in low-grade inflammation and an improvement in strength capacity denoting improved immunosenescence and inflammaging among elderly participants. However, the study was conducted on a small sample for a short period. Therefore, robust long-term studies are required to elucidate further positive effects of different levels of physical activities in the elderly. Healthcare professionals can use these findings to understand how exercise influences immunosenescence and inflammation in the ageing body.
Abstract
With increasing age, the immune system undergoes a remodeling process, affecting the shift of T cell subpopulations and the development of chronic low-grade inflammation. Clinically, this is characterized by increased susceptibility to infections or development of several diseases. Since lifestyle factors can play a significant role in reducing the hallmarks of immune aging and inflammation, we investigated the effect of a 6 week low-dose combined resistance and endurance training program. Forty participants (70.3 ± 5.0 years) were randomly assigned to either a training (TG) or control group (CG) and performed a controlled low-threshold and care-oriented 6-week-long combined resistance and endurance training program. Changes in anthropometrics as well as strength capacity were measured. In subgroups of TG and CG, T cells and their subpopulations (CD4+, CD8+, naïve, central, effector memory, T-EMRA) were analyzed by flow cytometry. The changes of various plasma cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and adipokines were analyzed by luminex assays. The exercise program was followed by an increase in strength capacities. Participants of TG showed an increase of the CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio over time (p < 0.05). Significant decreases in systemic levels of interleukin (IL-) 6, IL-8, IL-10 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (p < 0.05) were observed for participants of TG over time. Even short-term and low-threshold training can reduce some of the hallmarks of immune aging in elderly and thus could be beneficial to stimulate immunity. The specific characteristics of the program make it easily accessible to older people, who may benefit in the longer term in terms of their immunocompetence.
Methodological quality
Jadad score
:
1
Allocation concealment
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No
