Abstract
After a short introduction into the general topic, the catecholamine-induced increase
of leukocytes in which the granulocytes are predominant after short-term exercise
is discussed. The reduction of lymphocytes is associated with work-dependent cortisol
increase after long-term exercise or 1 h after strenuous work. The catecholamine-stimulated
lymphocytes increase could be explained by the liberation of the cells from the endothelial
vessel wall after catecholamine interaction with the ß-adrenoceptors and by mobilization
from lymph nodes and spleen after ß-adrenergic stimulation. Catecholamines reduce
the proliferation of lymphocytes and the degranulation of mast cells, preventing hypersensitivity
reaction due to inhibited mediator liberation. The influence of cortisol and cytokines
and vice versa is discussed. The hormonal changes after runs of different intensities
and duration are demonstrated; they show an interaction with immunological regulation.
The neuroimmune modulation after physical and psychological stress also has to be
considered in immune regulation since under this condition the secretion of encephalins,
endorphins, ACTH, and cortisol is increased. The significance of enhanced vasopressin
secretion causing postural fainting by vagovasal reaction indicates also the effect
of a neuropeptide which is related to immunological reactions. In the changes of lymphocyte
subclasses, the homing effect of these cells should be regarded. Advices which can
improve the immunologic behaviour, avoiding susceptibility to infections by well-conducted
training regimens and adequate periods of regeneration time, are necessary. The multifold
mechanisms involved in the immune regulation and the interaction with several hormonal
and metabolic changes caused by exercise make it diffucult to give, at the present
time, well-founded practical pieces of advice; it needs more work and well-conducted
studies of exercise and competition.
Key words
Hormonal immunologic modulation - leukocytes - lymphocytes - catecholamines - cortisol
- neuropeptides - cytokines - lymphocytes subpopulation
