Effect of resistance exercise on acquired immunocytes in cancer survivors: A pilot study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of resistance exercise on skeletal muscle mass-related fitness and acquired immune cell function in ovarian cancer survivors. Methods: Twelve ovarian cancer survivors aged 33–61 years participated voluntarily in this study and were divided into control group (CG, n = 6) and exercise group (EG, n = 6). They underwent removal of ovarian cancer and received regular care for over one year. Resistance exercise was used as the intervention program conducted 4 days a week for 12 weeks. Skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and endurance were assessed at baseline and at week 12. Other dependent variables included adaptive immunocytes related to helper T (Th) cells and immunosuppressors (CD4+ and CD8+). Results: After the intervention, skeletal muscle mass showed positive changes in EG com-pared to CG, although not significantly different. Muscle strength and endurance significantly increased in EG, while there was no significant change in CG. Th1, Th2, and Th1/Th2 ratio were significantly different between both groups. CD4+CD25+T cells and CD4+PD-1+T cells of EG were lower than those of CG. CD8+PD-1+T cells and CD8+TIGIT+T of EG were lower than those of CG. These results can be interpreted as the improved sensitivity of CD4+ and CD8+, which helps the secretion of myokines and cytokines, when cytotoxic substances are injected into the human body. Conclusions: This study suggests that resistance training improves upon desirable changes in adaptive immune cell responses in ovarian cancer survivors by maintaining skeletal muscle mass while developing strength and endurance.