Int J Sports Med 1994; 15: S167-S171
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021132
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

The Cytokine Response to Strenuous Exercise

H. Northoff1 , C. Weinstock1 , A. Berg2
  • 1Abteilung für Transfusionsmedizin mit Blutbank, Klinikum der Eberhard-Karls-Universität, Tübingen, Germany
  • 2Abteilung für Sport- und Leistungsmedizin, Klinikum der Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Freiburg, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
14 March 2008 (online)

Abstract

Several groups have now investigated the cytokine response to strenuous exercise. In this article we try to summarize known data on this topic. Significant, albeit mild increases in plasma levels of the monokines IL-1, TNF-α, IL-6, and of soluble IL-2 receptor have been reported following strenuous exercise. Increased excretion of cytokines after exercise can also be shown in the urine of athletes. Modulation of cytokine release by strenuous exercise can also be demonstrated using in vitro cell cultures. Several authors have shown an increase in endotoxin-stimulated monokine release following exercise. In contrast, using whole blood cultures we found strongly depressed production of interferon gamma (in response to mitogen or endotoxin) following strenuous exercise. The potential significance of cytokine modulation for exercise-related immunological problems is discussed.