Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were one of the first few cytokines to be discovered. The normative data for levels of cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α in particular and all other cytokines in general have not yet been established well. The normal levels for each of the cytokines vary from one race to another. Therefore, all studies need to be done in cases and controls belonging to the same race or same populations. The kits for cytokine assays are expensive and running the assays is laborious and time consuming. It is recommended that the serum/plasma samples are run in duplicates and triplicates to avoid error. Immunology and the field of cytokines is an area which has many domains unexplored. As yet, it is not clearly understood by what mechanisms and pathways each of the cytokines alter the levels of other cytokines. Exercise or physical activity is an intervention which can be administered easily and levels of cytokines measured before and after intervention in same individuals taking all the above mentioned factors into consideration. Hence it is imperative that we look into studies on exercise and cytokines to do further research in the field of cytokines.
Highlights
Cytokines are protein molecules which are mediators of our immune system[1] that are released into the circulation by several cells of the reticuloendothelial and musculoskeletal systems.[2]
A variety of cytokines are pumped into the circulation in response to different stimuli such as antigens, exercise, mental stress, infections, etc.[3]
It is cytolytic to certain tumor cells.[13]. It is an inducer of cytokines and cell adhesion molecules and is a regulator of proliferation/differentiation in lymphocytes and hemopoietic progenitors.[14]
Summary
Cytokines are protein molecules which are mediators of our immune system[1] that are released into the circulation by several cells of the reticuloendothelial and musculoskeletal systems.[2]. TNF- is a multifunctional and a pleiotropic stimulator of cellular responses.[12] It is cytolytic to certain tumor cells.[13] It is an inducer of cytokines and cell adhesion molecules and is a regulator of proliferation/differentiation in lymphocytes and hemopoietic progenitors.[14] It is known to cause insulin resistance.[15]. The levels of these cytokines are altered with different types of exercise such as downhill running, cycling, swimming, athletics, etc. Maintenance of optimum levels of IL-6 in particular, by regular exercise, can result in protection against chronic diseases associated with low-grade inflammation such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases.[31,32] Coronary risk profile is seen to improve in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients after regular exercise regime due to
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