Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the effect of exercise induced stress on serum cortisol level and CD4 cells in rats. Methods: A total of 21 male albino rats weighing 100±10g were used for the study. The exercise pre-conditioning was in the form of mere swimming. Serum cortisol was evaluated using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. CD4 cell counts were estimated using Partec Cyflow counter, Germany for the quantification of CD4 T lymphocytes. Result: It was observed that, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the serum cortisol level in Group 2 when compared with Group 1 and Group 3, while there was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the CD4 cell count in Group 2 when compared with Group 1 and Group 3. Conclusion: Solitary confinement and strenuous exercise were inhibitory to the proliferation of CD4 cells with the elevation of cortisol being a possible mediator. Keywords: Stress, Cortisol, CD4, Swimming.
Highlights
Exercise is any bodily activity that enhances physical fitness
Result: It was observed that, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the serum cortisol level in Group 2 when compared with Group 1 and Group 3, while there was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the CD4 cell count in Group 2 when compared with Group 1 and Group 3
Solitary confinement and strenuous exercise were inhibitory to the proliferation of CD4 cells with the elevation of cortisol being a possible mediator
Summary
Frequent and regular physical exercises boost the immune system and help prevent diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 Diabetes mellitus and obesity (Stampfer et al, 2000; Hu et al, 2001). It improves mental health; helps prevent depression and promote positive self-esteem (Hu et al, 2001). Cytokines are soluble communication between components of the immune system and brain. Cytokines can be divided into pro inflammatory cytokines such as interleukins (IL) – 2, interleukins (IL) – 6, Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF) and gamma interferon (IFN-y) and anti-inflammatory
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