Does exercise attenuate age- and disease-associated dysfunction in unconventional T Cells? Shining a light on overlooked cells in exercise immunology

Erik Hanson, Lauren Bates, David Bartlett, John Campbell

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

8 Citations (SciVal)
108 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Unconventional T Cells (UTCs) are a unique population of immune cells that links innate and adaptive immunity. Following activation, UTCs contribute to a host of immunological activities, rapidly responding to microbial and viral infections and playing key roles in tumor suppression. Aging and chronic disease both have been shown to adversely affect UTC numbers and function, with increased inflammation, change in body composition, and physical inactivity potentially contributing to the decline. One possibility to augment circulating UTCs is through increased physical activity. Acute exercise is a potent stimulus leading to the mobilization of immune cells while the benefits of exercise training may include anti-inflammatory effects, reductions in fat mass, and improved fitness. We provide an overview of age-related changes in UTCs, along with chronic diseases that are associated with altered UTC number and function. We summarize how UTCs respond to acute exercise and exercise training and discuss potential mechanisms that may lead to improved frequency and function.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1815-1834
Number of pages20
JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology
Volume121
Issue number7
Early online date6 Apr 2021
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 31 Jul 2021

Keywords

  • Exercise training
  • Gamma delta T cells
  • MAIT cells
  • NKT cells

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Physiology (medical)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Does exercise attenuate age- and disease-associated dysfunction in unconventional T Cells? Shining a light on overlooked cells in exercise immunology'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this