Interpreting 'anti-inflammatory' cytokine responses to exercise: focus on interleukin-10

Gut Microbiota and Exercise: Probiotics to Modify the Composition and Roles of the Gut Microbiota in the Context of 3P Medicine

Prolonged and intense physical activity can trigger stress response mechanisms across various physiological systems-including the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and neuroendocrine systems-disrupting energy metabolism, immune function, redox balance, and hormonal regulation. Critically, when not accompanied by adequate recovery, such exertion may impair rather than enhance athletic performance. In parallel, there has been growing interest in probiotics as natural, safe, and accessible dietary supplements with the potential to support performance and recovery. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal role of the gut microbiome in mediating communication along the gut-brain and gut-muscle axes, thereby influencing not only metabolic and immune functions but also neuromuscular adaptation and fatigue resistance. This review explores the mechanisms through which probiotics may enhance exercise performance, mitigate exercise-induced fatigue, and improve physiological adaptation via modulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic signaling pathways. Framed within the context of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (3P medicine), this paper emphasizes the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of personalized probiotic strategies in optimizing athletic performance through the qualitative and quantitative assessment of microbiota and host responses.

Unravelling behavioural contributions to IBS risk: evidence from univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomisation

Background

While numerous studies have investigated the link between behavioural factors and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the causal relationships remain unresolved. This study applied Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis to assess the causal impact of specific behavioural factors on IBS risk.

Methods

Bidirectional Mendelian randomisation analysis was employed to evaluate the causal relationships between behavioural factors and IBS risk. A genome-wide significance threshold (P < 5e-6) was applied to identify associations between genetic variants and behaviour-related traits, ensuring robust selection of instrumental variables for evaluating potential causal effects. Genetic correlations with IBS were sourced from extensive genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Various statistical methods were applied to estimate the causal effects.

Results

This study employed both univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomisation analyses to investigate the causal relationships between specific behavioural factors and the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The results indicated that body mass index (BMI) (odds ratio (OR) = 1.074; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.025-1.125, P = 0.031), insomnia (OR = 1.986; 95% CI = 1.652-2.389, P < 0.001), duration of mobile phone use (OR = 1.120; 95% CI = 1.018-1.232, P = 0.021), and weekly mobile phone usage time in the past three months (OR = 1.148; 95% CI = 1.016-1.298, P = 0.021,) were associated with an increased risk of IBS. In contrast, usual walking speed (OR = 0.756; 95% CI = 0.621-0.920, P < 0.001), non-smoking status (OR = 0.779; 95% CI = 0.645-0.941, P < 0.001), and weekly alcohol consumption (OR = 0.862; 95% CI = 0.743-0.999, P = 0.015) were associated with a reduced risk of IBS. Furthermore, in the multivariate Mendelian randomisation analysis, no statistically significant causal associations were found for BMI, usual walking pace, length of mobile phone use, and smoking status. Weekly mobile phone usage time in the past three months (OR = 1.439; 95% CI = 1.126-1.840, P = 0.0037,) and insomnia (OR = 1.468; 95% CI = 1.076-2.003, P = 0.0156) were identified as risk factors, while weekly alcohol intake (OR = 0.813; 95% CI = 0.677-0.975, P = 0.0257) acted as a protective factor.

Conclusions

This study identified BMI, insomnia, duration of mobile phone use, and weekly mobile phone usage time in the past three months as risk factors for IBS. In contrast, weekly alcohol consumption, usual walking pace, and non-smoking status were observed as protective factors. Additionally, in multivariable analysis, weekly mobile phone use, insomnia, and weekly alcohol consumption showed a direct influence on IBS risk when considered simultaneously.

A Pilot 24-Week 'Bulk and Cut' Dietary Protocol Combined with Resistance Training Is Feasible and Improves Body Composition and TNF-α Concentrations in Untrained Adult Males

Background/Objectives: This study piloted a 24-week bodybuilding program combining resistance training (RT) with a dietary bulk-and-cut protocol in middle-aged adult males. Methods: Seven untrained males (33 ± 3.0 years; BMI = 35.0 ± 4.6 kg/m2; body fat = 36 ± 5%) completed a 24-week intervention combining RT with a dietary protocol consisting of 12-week cycles of caloric bulking (0-12 weeks) and cutting (12-24 weeks). The participant retention rate was 64%, while compliance with training was 96.7%, and adherence to dietary cycles was over 93%. To assess the preliminary efficacy of the intervention, venous blood samples and measurements of body composition (BodPod), muscle strength, and VO2max (cycle ergometer) were collected at baseline (week 0) and following the bulking (week 12) and cutting (week 24) cycles. Circulating lipids (triglycerides, total, low-density, and high-density cholesterol), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were measured in serum. Results: The training led to significant increases in muscle strength, especially in the deadlift (+46%, p < 0.001) and squat (+65%, p < 0.001). Improvements in body composition were characterized by an increase in fat-free mass and a decrease in body fat percentage over the 24-week intervention (+3% and -6%, respectively, p < 0.05). Lipids, CRP, IL-6, and IL-10 did not change significantly, but there was a notable reduction in TNF-α (time effect p = 0.05, pη2 = 0.39), with 15% lower concentrations at week 24 compared to baseline, indicating reduced inflammation. Conclusions: Overall, the pilot intervention achieved high compliance and adherence rates, leading to improvements in body composition and lower resting TNF-α concentrations in a group of middle-aged males with obesity.

Interleukin-10 resistance in type 2 diabetes is associated with defective STAT3 signaling in human blood leukocytes

Chronic inflammation is strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes (T2D), highlighting the need to better understand inflammatory processes in people living with T2D. Hyperglycemia blunts the anti-inflammatory actions of interleukin-10 (IL-10)-the most potent anti-inflammatory cytokine-but the mechanistic basis remains unclear. To test the hypothesis that signaling defects underpin this hyporesponsiveness to IL-10 action, fasted blood samples were obtained from individuals living with T2D (n = 17, age: 64 ± 9 yr, HbA1c: 7.2 ± 1.1%) and their age-matched counterparts without diabetes (n = 19, 65 ± 8 yr, 5.5 ± 0.3%). Blood leukocytes were analyzed for IL-10-mediated signaling, gene expression, and cytokine secretion using flow cytometry, qPCR, and whole blood cultures, respectively. Despite no overt elevations in circulating pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine concentrations, blood leukocytes from individuals with T2D exhibited exaggerated cytokine secretion when exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (P < 0.05). IL-10's ability to activate its canonical transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was blunted in CD14 monocytes and CD4 lymphocytes from people with T2D (P < 0.01)-a defect associated with lower IL-10 receptor expression on both cell types (P < 0.05). This upstream signaling defect was accompanied by attenuated suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 mRNA levels in IL-10-treated mononuclear cells (P = 0.059) and higher lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated cytokine secretion from blood leukocytes exposed to IL-10 (P < 0.01). Our findings identify defective IL-10-mediated signaling and gene expression as a potential mechanism underpinning IL-10 resistance in T2D, highlighting the need for further investigation into therapeutic approaches targeting IL-10.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings demonstrate that immune cells from people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are less responsive to the anti-inflammatory actions of interleukin-10 (IL-10), which may drive chronic inflammation in this population. We identify T2D-associated defects at multiple steps of the IL-10 cascade-including IL-10 receptor expression, STAT3 signaling, SOCS3 mRNA, and cytokine secretion. Our findings highlight defective IL-10 action as a potential therapeutic target to ameliorate inflammation in T2D.

A comprehensive review on the impact of polyphenol supplementation and exercise on depression and brain function parameters

The objective of this review study is to examine the combined antidepressant effects of exercise and polyphenol supplementation, with a focus on specific polyphenolic compounds such as crocin, curcumin, and quercetin, as well as different forms of physical exercise, including aerobic and resistance training. The research examines how these interventions influence depressive-like behaviors, cognitive function, and neurochemical markers in animal models and human participants. The findings demonstrate that both exercise and polyphenols independently contribute to mood enhancement, reduced anxiety, and improved cognitive function through mechanisms such as neurogenesis, neurotransmitter modulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Notably, the combined interventions showed a synergistic effect, providing more significant benefits in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhancing cognitive performance, and supporting overall mental well-being. These results suggest that integrating exercise and polyphenol supplementation could be a promising non-pharmacological approach to managing depression and related disorders.

Changes in plasma cytokines following a 60-h fast are not influenced by the addition of exercise despite elevated ketones in healthy young adults

Immunometabolic processes maintain physiological homeostasis and are implicated in various chronic diseases. Fasting and exercise independently alter metabolic and immunological processes; their combination could provide insights into immunometabolic interactions. Using a randomized crossover design, 15 healthy adults (six females, nine males, 26.5 ± 4.3 years) fasted for 60 h with and without the addition of a 3 h cycling bout (65%-80% VO2 peak). Fasting alone (FAST) and with exercise (FEX) reduced plasma glucose, insulin, respiratory exchange ratio, and increased β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB; all p < 0.01). FEX elicited more rapid changes in glucose and BHB and higher BHB concentrations at 60 h (all p < 0.01). Both conditions decreased circulating TNF-⍺ concentrations and increased IL-10 (p < 0.01), although the increase in IL-10 appeared to be driven by the FEX condition (p = 0.03). IL-6 concentrations tended to increase in both conditions (p = 0.1). Total white blood cell count remained unchanged after 60 h in both conditions, with only modest changes in some leukocyte subpopulations. Collectively, the observed changes in circulating cytokine concentrations support an overall anti-inflammatory effect of prolonged fasting, while the maintenance of leukocyte concentrations suggests immune function is not compromised. Despite greater metabolic strain, the addition of prolonged exercise did not appear to augment changes in systemic cytokines and leukocytes.

Clinical outcomes and anti-inflammatory mechanisms predict maximum heart rate improvement after physical activity training in individuals with psychiatric disorders and comorbid obesity

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive validity and discriminatory ability of clinical outcomes, inflammatory activity, oxidative and vascular damage, and metabolic mechanisms for detecting significant improve maximum heart rate after physical activity training in individuals with psychiatric disorders and obesity comorbid using a longitudinal design and transdiagnostic perspective.

METHODS

Patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and, schizophrenia and with comorbid obesity (n = 29) were assigned to a 12-week structured physical exercise program. Peripheral blood biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular mechanisms, and metabolic activity, as well as neurocognitive and functional performance were assessed twice, before and after intervention. Maximum heart rate was considered a marker of effectiveness of physical activity. Mixed one-way analysis of variance and linear regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Individuals with psychiatric disorders and comorbid obesity exhibited an improvement in cognition, mood symptoms and body mass index, increase anti-inflammatory activity together with enhancement of the oxidative and cardiovascular mechanisms after physical activity training (p<0.05 to 0.0001; d = 0.47 to 1.63). A better clinical outcomes along with regulation of inflammatory, oxidative, and cardiovascular mechanisms were critical for predicting significant maximum heart rate variation over time (χ2 = 32.2 to 39.0, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The regulation of the anti-inflammatory mechanisms may be essential for maintained of healthy physical activity across psychiatric disorders and obesity. Likewise, inflammatory activity, oxidative stress, vascular and cardio-metabolic mechanisms may be a useful to identify individuals at greater risk of multi-comorbidity.

Exercise as a promoter of neurocognitive improvement in people with psychiatric disorders and comorbid obesity: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The psychiatric disorders and obesity comorbidity is related to neurocognitive impairment and inflammation. Exercise is crucial to improve and maintain healthy lifestyles. This randomized controlled trial tested the efficacy of aerobic exercise as promoter of neurocognitive improvement across psychiatric disorders with comorbid obesity (OB).

METHODS

Patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and, schizophrenia and with comorbid OB (n = 29) received brief healthy lifestyle counseling and were randomized into two groups: guided physical activity group (GPAG) (n = 10) which included 12 weeks of guided-exercise of moderate intensity and frequency, and incentive of autonomous physical activity proposals by the specialist. Standard physical activity group (SPAG) (n = 19) continue with their usual daily physical activity, without guidance or incentives, over 12 weeks. Peripheral blood biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, vascular mechanisms, and metabolic activity, as well as neurocognitive and functional performance were assessed twice, before and after intervention. Mixed one-way analysis of variance and linear regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Individuals in GPAG showed better neurocognitive and functional performance than individuals in SPAG after physical activity training (p < 0.05; η²p = 0.14 to 0.15). A significant improvement in cognition before and after the physical activity training in the GPAG group was found (p < 0.0001; η²p = 0.29). In all cases, the effect size was from moderate to large. Inflammatory activity (interleukin [IL-6]), oxidative (mitochondrial reactive oxygen species [mROS] and mitochondrial membrane potential [ΔΨm]) and inter cellular adhesion molecule 1 [ICAM1], leukocyte-endothelium adhesion [LEPMN], and p-selectin [PSEL]) levels, and cardio-metabolic (low-density lipoprotein [LDL], systolic blood pressure [SBP], and insulin) processes were significant predicting neurocognitive improve of individuals with psychiatric disorders and comorbid OB.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity programs may have positive impact on neurocognitive and functional performance in individuals with psychiatric disorders and OB. Exercise influences inflammatory, oxidative, vascular, and cardio-metabolic pathways, and modulate cognition. These findings may have a potential translational utility for early intervention in these disorders.

Effects of a Circuit Training Program on Myokine Levels in Insulin-Resistant Women: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Introduction: Circuit training is a form of body conditioning with endurance and resistance components. Given the function of skeletal muscle as an endocrine organ secreting various myokines involved in maintaining glucose metabolism homeostasis, our study focused on estimating the impact of the implemented training program on the direction of changes in myokines such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), and irisin in women newly diagnosed with insulin resistance. Methods: This prospective controlled trial randomly divided 42 women into two groups. The training group performed circuit training combining strength (50%-80% of one-repetition maximum) and endurance (50%-75% of heart rate reserve) exercises for 3 months, three 33-min sessions weekly. Exercises were performed on five weight and two cardio machines. The control nontraining group did not change their previous activity. Body composition indicators and IL-6, IL-10, FGF21, and irisin levels were measured before and after the intervention. The data for 27 patients were analysed using two-way repeated measures analyses of variance. Results: The pattern of change in serum IL-6 levels over time differed significantly between the groups (p < 0.05). The patterns of change did not differ significantly between groups for IL-10, FGF21, and irisin. Conclusion: The circuit training program implemented in women newly diagnosed with insulin resistance significantly increased their serum IL-6 and not their IL-10, FGF21, and irisin levels. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04528693.

Elevated Plasma IL-6 Coincides with Activation of STAT3 in PBMC After Acute Resistance Exercise

INTRODUCTION

Changes in plasma concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10, after acute resistance exercise (RE) have been widely explored. Whether observed changes in plasma cytokine concentration correspond to the activation of anti-inflammatory signaling pathways in immune cells after acute RE is unknown. This study aimed to determine if changes in plasma cytokines after acute RE resulted in the activation of anti-inflammatory signaling pathways in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

METHODS

Healthy young males (N = 16; age = 23.5 ± 2.7 yr; BMI = 22.4 ± 1.7 kg·m-2) participated in a single session of whole-body RE (4 sets of 4 different exercises at 70% 1-repetition maximum with the last set to failure) and a sedentary control (CON) condition in a randomized crossover design. Blood samples were collected at several time points before and after the exercise bout.

RESULTS

Higher plasma IL-6, IL-10, and IL-1 RA concentrations were observed after RE compared with CON. Phosphorylation of STAT3 and protein expression of SOCS3 in PBMC were increased in RE compared with CON. The elevation of plasma IL-6, but not IL-10, coincided with the activation of STAT3 signaling in PBMC.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight a potential mechanism by which RE may exert anti-inflammatory actions in circulating immune cells.

Cross-sectional analysis of blood leukocyte responsiveness to interleukin-10 and interleukin-6 across age and physical activity level

Objectives

To determine how the anti-inflammatory actions of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-6 differ across age and physical activity levels.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional design, fasted blood samples were obtained from younger physically inactive (YI: n=10, age: 22.7 ± 3.7 years, BMI: 24.8 ± 4.8 kg/m2, <150 min of weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]), younger highly active (YA: n=11 varsity cross country running athletes, 20.7 ± 2.7 years, 21.1 ± 1.8 kg/m2, >300 min of weekly MVPA), and older highly active (OA: 12, 56.0 ± 10.3 years, 22.8 ± 3.2 kg/m2, >300 min of weekly MVPA) individuals and analyzed for leukocyte counts, IL-10 and IL-6-related signaling, and cytokine secretion ex vivo.

Results

Total white blood cells and monocytes were similar between groups (p=0.8) but YA and OA had lower lymphocyte counts than YI (p<0.01). The ability of IL-10 (1 ng/mL) to phosphorylate signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in CD14 monocytes was greater in YA vs. YI (p<0.03) despite YA having lower IL-10 receptor expression (p<0.01). IL-6 (10 ng/mL) mediated STAT3 phosphorylation in CD4 lymphocytes was higher in OA compared YI (p<0.01), with a similar tendency observed for YA vs. YI (p=0.08). Despite enhanced responsiveness of STAT3 to IL-10/6 in active individuals, the ability of IL-10/6 to inhibit tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-⍺) secretion from lipopolysaccharide-stimulated whole-blood was similar between groups.

Conclusions

Highly active younger and older individuals demonstrate enhanced IL-10- and IL-6-mediated activation of immune cell STAT3. Although the ability of IL-10/6 to inhibit TNF-⍺ secretion appeared unimpacted by activity level, anti-inflammatory cytokine actions were preserved in older active individuals.

Does tinnitus amplify the effects of healthy eating patterns and physical activity on the sleep disturbance or sleep insufficiency, based on the case study of NHANES survey in the United States

Objective

Exploring whether the presence of tinnitus amplifies the effects of an individual's dietary patterns and physical activity on sleep disturbance or sleep insufficiency.

Study design

This study extracted data from the five National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) between 2009 and 2018, including individuals who had undergone complete questionnaires on tinnitus, dietary habits, physical activity, and sleep. Multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS) and subgroup analyses were conducted to explore the associations of dietary habits, physical activity, and tinnitus with sleep disturbance and sleep insufficiency.

Results

A total of 7,440 participants were enrolled in this study, of whom 1,795 participants were evaluated as sleep disturbance (24.13%), and 2,281 were sleep insufficiency (30.66%). With adjusting confounding factors of demographic and socioeconomic variables, among overall population, participants with tinnitus showed a significantly increased risk of sleep disturbance [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.83-2.36), and sleep insufficiency (aOR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.15-1.49). Poor dietary habits also increased the risk of sleep disturbance (aOR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.04-1.12), as does lack of physical activity (aOR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.03-1.27); but neither exposure factors significantly increased the risk of sleep insufficiency. The non-linear trend analyses of RCS found that the influence of exposure factors on sleep disturbance experiencing a steady or small decline trend after rising. In addition, the results of the subgroup analysis showed that in tinnitus patients, poor dietary habits and lack of physical activity both significantly increased the risk of sleep disturbance, and poor dietary habits also increased the risk of sleep insufficiency remarkable, but lack of physical activity did not. In healthy participants, poor dietary habits were only significantly associated the sleep disturbance, while lack of physical inactivity even had a protective effect against sleep insufficiency.

Conclusion

Compared to the general population, tinnitus significantly amplified the effects of poor dietary patterns and physical inactivity on sleep disturbance and sleep insufficiency. For tinnitus patients, adjusting a healthy diet and increasing exercise could more effectively promote their sleep health.

Traumatic inflammatory response: pathophysiological role and clinical value of cytokines

Severe trauma is an intractable problem in healthcare. Patients have a widespread immune system response that is complex and vital to survival. Excessive inflammatory response is the main cause of poor prognosis and poor therapeutic effect of medications in trauma patients. Cytokines are signaling proteins that play critical roles in the body's response to injuries, which could amplify or suppress immune responses. Studies have demonstrated that cytokines are closely related to the severity of injuries and prognosis of trauma patients and help present cytokine-based diagnosis and treatment plans for trauma patients. In this review, we introduce the pathophysiological mechanisms of a traumatic inflammatory response and the role of cytokines in trauma patients. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of cytokine-based diagnosis and therapy for post-traumatic inflammatory response, although further clarification to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of cytokines following trauma is warranted.

Exercise4Psychosis: A randomised control trial assessing the effect of moderate-to-vigorous exercise on inflammatory biomarkers and negative symptom profiles in men with first-episode psychosis

INTRODUCTION

First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) is a devastating mental health condition that commonly emerges during early adulthood, and is characterised by a disconnect in perceptions of reality. Current evidence suggests that inflammation and perturbed immune responses are involved in the pathology of FEP and may be associated specifically with negative symptoms. Exercise training is a potent anti-inflammatory stimulus that can reduce persistent inflammation, and can improve mood profiles in general populations. Therefore, exercise may represent a novel adjunct therapy for FEP. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exercise on biomarkers of inflammation, negative symptoms of psychosis, and physiological health markers in FEP.

METHODS

Seventeen young males (26.67 ± 6.64 years) were recruited from Birmingham Early Intervention in Psychosis Services and randomised to a 6-week exercise programme consisting of two-to-three sessions per week that targeted 60-70 % heart-rate max (HRMax), or a treatment as usual (TAU) condition. Immune T-helper (Th-) cell phenotypes and cytokines, symptom severity, functional wellbeing, and cognition were assessed before and after 6-weeks of regular exercise.

RESULTS

Participants in the exercise group (n = 10) achieved 81.11 % attendance to the intervention, with an average exercise intensity of 67.54 % ± 7.75 % HRMax. This led to favourable changes in immune cell phenotypes, and a significant reduction in the Th1:Th2 ratio (-3.86 %) compared to the TAU group (p = 0.014). After the exercise intervention, there was also a significant reduction in plasma IL-6 concentration (-22.17 %) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.006). IL-8, and IL-10 did not show statistically significant differences between the groups after exercise. Symptomatically, there was a significant reduction in negative symptoms after exercise (-13.54 %, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, (PANSS) Negative) when compared to the TAU group (p = 0.008). There were no significant change in positive or general symptoms, functional outcomes, or cognition (all p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is feasible and attainable in clinical populations. Exercise represents a physiological tool that is capable of causing significant inflammatory biomarker change and concomitant symptom improvements in FEP cohorts, and may be useful for treatment of symptom profiles that are not targeted by currently prescribed antipsychotic medication.

Direct assessment of leukocyte signalling and cytokine secretion reveals exercise intensity-dependent reductions in anti-inflammatory cytokine action

Circulating interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 concentrations are widely used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise but do not capture cytokine action at the cellular level. Whether and how acute exercise impacts anti-inflammatory cytokine action in humans is unknown. To determine how exercise intensity and pattern impact IL-6 and IL-10 action in blood leukocytes, 16 active adults (eight males/eight females; age: 30 ± 3 years; body mass index: 22.8 ± 2.3 kg/m2;V ̇ O 2 peak ${{\dot{V}}_{{{{\mathrm{O}}}_{\mathrm{2}}}{\mathrm{peak}}}}$ : 51 ± 6 mL/kg/min) completed a no-exercise control condition (CTL) or isocaloric bouts of cycling performed below (moderate continuous exercise; MCE) or above (heavy continuous or heavy intermittent exercise; HCE or HIE, respectively) lactate threshold. Venous blood (before, after, 30 min after and 90 min after exercise) was analysed for immune cell subpopulations, plasma cytokine concentrations, anti-inflammatory cytokine action and monocyte phenotype. Exercise induced rapid leukocytosis (P < 0.001) and increased plasma IL-6 (P < 0.001), IL-10 (P = 0.0145) and tumour necrosis factor-⍺ (TNF-⍺) (P = 0.0338) concentrations in an intensity-dependent manner (HCE and/or HIE vs. CTL). These systemic changes coincided with a diminished ability of IL-10/6 to phosphorylate STAT3 (P < 0.001) and inhibit TNF-⍺ secretion (P = 0.0238) in blood leukocytes following HCE and HIE. Monocyte polarization experiments revealed lower CD80 [MCE (P = 0.0933) and HIE (P = 0.0187) vs. CTL] and a tendency for higher CD163 expression (HCE vs. CTL, P = 0.0985), suggesting that hyporesponsiveness to anti-inflammatory cytokine action does not impede the ability of exercise to promote an anti-inflammatory monocyte phenotype. These findings provide novel insights into the immunomodulatory effects of exercise in humans and highlight the importance of directly measuring cellular cytokine action when evaluating the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise. KEY POINTS: Circulating cytokine concentrations are frequently used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise but may not capture changes in cytokine action occurring at the cellular level. We directly assessed anti-inflammatory cytokine action - measured using a combination of intracellular signalling and cytokine secretion ex vivo - in distinct immune cell subpopulations after acute calorie-matched exercise bouts differing in intensity and pattern. Anti-inflammatory cytokine action was blunted following higher intensity exercise despite corresponding increases in circulating cytokine concentrations and immune cell counts. Changes in cytokine action were not explained by changes in cytokine receptor expression on circulating immune cells. Our findings provide new insights into the immunomodulatory effects of exercise in humans and highlight the importance of directly measuring cellular cytokine action when evaluating the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise.

Beyond muscles: Investigating immunoregulatory myokines in acute resistance exercise - A systematic review and meta-analysis

Myokines, released from the muscle, enable communication between the working muscles and other tissues. Their release during physical exercise is assumed to depend on immune-hormonal-metabolic interactions concerning mode (endurance or resistance exercise), duration, and intensity. This meta-analysis aims to examine the acute changes of circulating myokines inducing immunoregulatory effects caused by a bout of resistance exercise and to consider potential moderators of the results. Based on this selection strategy, a systematic literature search was conducted for resistance exercise intervention studies measuring interleukin (IL-) 6, IL-10, IL-1ra, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-) α, IL-15, IL-7, transforming growth factor (TGF-) β1, and fractalkines (FKN) before and immediately after resistance exercise in healthy individuals. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for each myokine. We identified a moderate positive effect of resistance exercise for IL-6 and IL-1ra. Regarding IL-15 and TNF-α, small to moderate effects were found. For IL-10, no significant effect was observed. Due to no data, meta-analyses for IL-7, TGF-β1, and FKN could not be performed. No moderators (training status, type of exercise, risk of bias, age, sex, time of day, exercise volume, exercise intensity, exercise dose) of the results were detected for all tested myokines. Taken together, this systematic review and meta-analysis showed immediate positive effects of an acute resistance exercise session on IL-6, IL-1ra, TNF-α, and IL-15 levels.

Exploring the Link between Inflammatory Biomarkers and Head and Neck Cancer: Understanding the Impact of Smoking as a Cancer-Predisposing Factor

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is associated with significant morbidity globally, with smoking recognized as a key risk factor. This study investigates the interplay between smoking and inflammatory biomarkers in HNC development. The study involved 50 HNC patients, divided into smoking and non-smoking groups, and a control group of 30 healthy individuals. Serum levels of 48 cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and other inflammatory markers were meticulously assessed. Significant differences in the levels of an extensive panel of inflammatory markers were observed between the patient groups and healthy controls. Elevated macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) in both HNC groups implicated increased activity in pathways known for immunomodulation, proliferation, and angiogenesis during HNC cancerogenesis. In contrast, non-smokers with HNC demonstrated higher levels of interleukin 10 (IL-10) and interleukin 15 (IL-15), suggesting a more robust immune response. Platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) levels were particularly high in smokers with HNC. Smoking seems to alter the levels of crucial biomarkers in HNC, potentially affecting disease progression and responses to treatment. The data indicate that smokers may experience a more aggressive cancer phenotype, while non-smokers maintain a profile suggestive of a more active and effective immune response against HNC.

PABPN1 functions as a predictive biomarker in colorectal carcinoma

PURPOSE

PABPN1 acts as a modulator of poly(A) tail length and alternative polyadenylation. This research was aimed to explore the role of PABPN1 in colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

Public databases were performed to analyze expression, location, roles of prognosis and tumor immunity and interaction with RNAs and proteins of PABPN1. To investigate PABPN1 expression in tissues, 78 CRC specimens were collected to conduct IHC, and 30 pairs of frozen CRC and corresponding adjacent normal tissues were used to conduct qRT-PCR and WB. In addition, in vitro experiments were then carried out to identify the role of PABPN1 in CRC.

RESULTS

Compared with normal tissues, PABPN1 expression was significant higher in CRC. Its high level predicted poor outcome of CRC. Th1 and Treg had significant negative relationships not only with PABPN1 expression, but also with six molecules interacting with PABPN1, including IFT172, KIAA0895L, RECQL4, WDR6, PABPC1 and NCBP1. In addition, PABPN1 had negative relationships with quite a few immune markers, such as CSF1R, IL-10, CCL2 and so on. In cellular experiments, silencing PABPN1 inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis in HCT-116 CRC cells.

CONCLUSION

In summary, PABPN1 might become a novel biomarker and correlate with tumor immunity in CRC.

Sertraline associated with gold nanoparticles reduce cellular toxicity and induce sex-specific responses in behavior and neuroinflammation biomarkers in a mouse model of anxiety

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sertraline associated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in vitro cell viability and in vivo behavior and inflammatory biomarkers in a mouse model of anxiety. Sertraline associated with AuNPs were synthesized and characterized. For the in vitro study, NIH3T3 and HT-22 cells were treated with different doses of sertraline, AuNPs, and sertraline + AuNPs and their viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. For the in vivo study, pregnant Swiss mice were administered a single dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the ninth day of gestation. The female and male offspring were divided into five treatment groups on PND 60 and administered chronic treatment for 28 days. The animals were subjected to behavioral testing and were subsequently euthanized. Their brains were collected and analyzed for inflammatory biomarkers. Sertraline associated with AuNPs exhibited significant changes in surface characteristics and increased diameters. Different doses of sertraline + AuNPs showed higher cell viability in NIH3T3 and HT-22 cells compared with sertraline alone. The offspring of LPS-treated dams exhibited anxiety-like behavior and neuroinflammatory biomarker changes during adulthood, which were ameliorated via sertraline + AuNPs treatment. The treatment response was sex-dependent and brain region-specific. These results suggest that AuNPs, which demonstrate potential to bind to other molecules, low toxicity, and reduced inflammation, can be synergistically used with sertraline to improve drug efficacy and safety by decreasing neuroinflammation and sertraline toxicity.

Aerobic exercise combined with chlorogenic acid exerts neuroprotective effects and reverses cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease model mice (APP/PS1) via the SIRT1/ /PGC-1α/PPARγ signaling pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease account for 60-80% of the total number of people with dementia, but its treatment and prevention strategies are still in a long process of exploration. It has been reported that a healthy lifestyle may be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for the prevention and treatment of AD, including increased physical activity and the consumption of polyphenol-rich foods. This study, therefore, investigated the effects of 8 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (EX), administration of chlorogenic acid administration (GCA), and a combination of both (EX+GCA) on β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress markers, neuronal damage, and cognitive performance in the brains of AD model mice (APP/PS1) and which signaling pathways may be responsible for these effects. The study used Western blot to detect the expression of signaling pathway-related proteins, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect the expression of inflammatory factors, hematoxylin-eosin staining to detect hippocampal neuronal morphology, immunohistochemistry to detect changes in Aβ deposition in the hippocampus, an oxidative stress marker kit to detect oxidative stress status and the Morris water maze to detect changes in cognitive performance. This study showed that an 8-week intervention (EX/GCA/EX+GCA) activating the SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway improved oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, Aβ deposition, and cognitive performance in mice. However, there was no obvious difference between the EX and GCA groups. In contrast, the combined EX+GCA intervention was significantly better than phase EX or GCA. Our study suggests that although relief of Aβ deposition, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuronal damage, and cognitive decline could also be achieved with EX or GCA, the combined EX+GCA intervention showed better results. These relief effects on AD-related conditions may be obtained by mediating the activation of the SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway. This study is the first to explore the improvement of AD-related conditions with a combined lifestyle of EX+GCA. This healthy lifestyle could be a candidate option for the treatment of AD.

Blood-Based Biomarkers for Managing Workload in Athletes: Perspectives for Research on Emerging Biomarkers

At present, various blood-based biomarkers have found their applications in the field of sports medicine. This current opinion addresses biomarkers that warrant consideration in future research for monitoring the athlete training load. In this regard, we identified a variety of emerging load-sensitive biomarkers, e.g., cytokines (such as IL-6), chaperones (such as heat shock proteins) or enzymes (such as myeloperoxidase) that could improve future athlete load monitoring as they have shown meaningful increases in acute and chronic exercise settings. In some cases, they have even been linked to training status or performance characteristics. However, many of these markers have not been extensively studied and the cost and effort of measuring these parameters are still high, making them inconvenient for practitioners so far. We therefore outline strategies to improve knowledge of acute and chronic biomarker responses, including ideas for standardized study settings. In addition, we emphasize the need for methodological advances such as the development of minimally invasive point-of-care devices as well as statistical aspects related to the evaluation of these monitoring tools to make biomarkers suitable for regular load monitoring.

Nanobody-based pannexin1 channel inhibitors reduce inflammation in acute liver injury

BACKGROUND

The opening of pannexin1 channels is considered as a key event in inflammation. Pannexin1 channel-mediated release of adenosine triphosphate triggers inflammasome signaling and activation of immune cells. By doing so, pannexin1 channels play an important role in several inflammatory diseases. Although pannexin1 channel inhibition could represent a novel clinical strategy for treatment of inflammatory disorders, therapeutic pannexin1 channel targeting is impeded by the lack of specific, potent and/or in vivo-applicable inhibitors. The goal of this study is to generate nanobody-based inhibitors of pannexin1 channels.

RESULTS

Pannexin1-targeting nanobodies were developed as potential new pannexin1 channel inhibitors. We identified 3 cross-reactive nanobodies that showed affinity for both murine and human pannexin1 proteins. Flow cytometry experiments revealed binding capacities in the nanomolar range. Moreover, the pannexin1-targeting nanobodies were found to block pannexin1 channel-mediated release of adenosine triphosphate. The pannexin1-targeting nanobodies were also demonstrated to display anti-inflammatory effects in vitro through reduction of interleukin 1 beta amounts. This anti-inflammatory outcome was reproduced in vivo using a human-relevant mouse model of acute liver disease relying on acetaminophen overdosing. More specifically, the pannexin1-targeting nanobodies lowered serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and diminished liver damage. These effects were linked with alteration of the expression of several NLRP3 inflammasome components.

CONCLUSIONS

This study introduced for the first time specific, potent and in vivo-applicable nanobody-based inhibitors of pannexin1 channels. As demonstrated for the case of liver disease, the pannexin1-targeting nanobodies hold great promise as anti-inflammatory agents, yet this should be further tested for extrahepatic inflammatory disorders. Moreover, the pannexin1-targeting nanobodies represent novel tools for fundamental research regarding the role of pannexin1 channels in pathological and physiological processes.

Individual resolvin E family members work distinctly and in a coordinated manner in the resolution of inflammation

Three main E-type resolvins (RvEs): RvE1, RvE2, and RvE3, have roles in the resolution of inflammation as anti-inflammatory activities. To investigate the roles of each RvE in the resolution of inflammation, timing of interleukin (IL)- 10 release and IL-10 receptor expressions, and phagocytosis evoked by each RvE in differentiated human monocytes, macrophage-like U937 cells were examined. Here, we show that RvEs enhance the expression of IL-10, and IL-10 receptor-mediated signaling pathways and IL-10-mediated-signaling-independent resolution of inflammatory effects by activating the phagocytotic function. Thus, RvE2 mainly evoked an IL-10-mediated anti-inflammatory function, whereas RvE3 principally activated phagocytotic activity of macrophages, which may be involved in tissue repair. On the other hand, RvE1 showed both functions, although not prominent but rather acting as a relief mediator that takes over the RvE2 function and passes over to the RvE3 function. Therefore, each RvE may act as an important role/stage-specific mediator in a coordinated manner with other RvEs in the processes of the resolution of inflammation.

Aerobic Exercise Improves Depressive-like Behavior in CUMS-Induced Rats via the SIRT3/ROS/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of exercise on depressive-like behavior induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in rats and to explore the role of the SIRT3/ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway in this process.

METHODS

Twenty-nine male 8-week-old Sprague Dawley rats were divided into a control group (CON) (nine rats) and a model group (twenty rats). Thirteen chronic stress stimuli were randomly applied once or twice per day for 35 days to induce depression in the model group rats. After the model was established, the model group rats were randomly divided into the CUMS group (CUMS) and the aerobic exercise + CUMS group (EX + CUMS). The EX + CUMS group received 8 weeks of aerobic exercise intervention for 6 days per week. Behavioral assessments were performed using the sucrose preference test and forced swimming test. The expression of SIRT3, NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the hippocampus was detected using RT-PCR. The ROS level in the hippocampus was detected using immunofluorescence. The protein levels of SIRT3 and NLRP3 in the hippocampus were detected using western blotting. The protein levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in the hippocampus were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS

After 5 weeks of chronic stress stimuli, the hippocampal function of rats in the CUMS model group was impaired, and their sucrose preference was reduced, while their forced swimming time was prolonged. The expression of SIRT3 decreased, ROS increased, and the expression of NLRP3 and the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 increased. Aerobic exercise increased the sucrose preference of rats, shortened their immobility time, increased the expression of SIRT3, and reduced the levels of ROS, NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18.

CONCLUSION

Exercise can improve the depressive behavior of CUMS model rats, and its mechanism may be related to the upregulation of SIRT3 in the hippocampus, which plays an anti-inflammatory role.

Relationships among Inflammatory Biomarkers and Objectively Assessed Physical Activity and Sleep during and after Chemotherapy for Gynecologic Malignancies

Little is known regarding associations between inflammatory biomarkers and objectively measured physical activity and sleep during and after chemotherapy for gynecologic cancer; thus, we conducted a longitudinal study to address this gap. Women with gynecologic cancer (patients) and non-cancer controls (controls) completed assessments before chemotherapy cycles 1, 3, and 6 (controls assessed contemporaneously), as well as at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Physical activity and sleep were measured using wrist-worn actigraphs and sleep diaries, and blood was drawn to quantify circulating levels of inflammatory markers. Linear and quadratic random-effects mixed models and random-effects fluctuation mixed models were used to examine physical activity and sleep over time, as well as the associations with inflammatory biomarkers. On average, patients (n = 97) and controls (n = 104) were 62 and 58 years old, respectively. Compared to controls, patients were less active, more sedentary, had more time awake after sleep onset, and had lower sleep efficiency (p-values < 0.05). Across groups, higher levels of TNF-α were associated with more sedentary time and less efficient sleep (p-values ≤ 0.05). Higher levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 were associated with lower levels of light physical activity (p-values < 0.05). Associations between inflammatory biomarkers, physical activity, and sleep did not differ between patients and controls. Given these results, we speculate that inflammation may contribute to less physical activity and more sleep problems that persist even 12 months after completing chemotherapy.

Myokines as mediators of exercise-induced cognitive changes in older adults: protocol for a comprehensive living systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The world's population is aging, but life expectancy has risen more than healthy life expectancy (HALE). With respect to brain and cognition, the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders increases with age, affecting health and quality of life, and imposing significant healthcare costs. Although the effects of physical exercise on cognition in advanced age have been widely explored, in-depth fundamental knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of the exercise-induced cognitive improvements is lacking. Recent research suggests that myokines, factors released into the blood circulation by contracting skeletal muscle, may play a role in mediating the beneficial effect of exercise on cognition. Our goal in this ongoing (living) review is to continuously map the rapidly accumulating knowledge on pathways between acute or chronic exercise-induced myokines and cognitive domains enhanced by exercise.

Method

Randomized controlled studies will be systematically collected at baseline and every 6 months for at least 5 years. Literature search will be performed online in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, SportDiscus, LILACS, IBECS, CINAHL, SCOPUS, ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (ROB 2). A random effects meta-analysis with mediation analysis using meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM) will be performed. The primary research question is to what extent exercise-induced myokines serve as mediators of cognitive function. Secondarily, the pooled effect size of specific exercise characteristics (e.g., mode of exercise) or specific older adults' populations (e.g., cognitively impaired) on the relationship between exercise, myokines, and cognition will be assessed. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023416996).

Discussion

Understanding the triad relationship between exercise, myokines and cognition will expand the knowledge on multiple integrated network systems communicating between skeletal muscles and other organs such as the brain, thus mediating the beneficial effects of exercise on health and performance. It may also have practical implications, e.g., if a certain myokine is found to be a mediator between exercise and cognition, the optimal exercise characteristics for inducing this myokine can be prescribed. The living review is expected to improve our state of knowledge and refine exercise regimes for enhancing cognitive functioning in diverse older adults' populations.

Registration

Systematic review and meta-analysis protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on the 24th of April 2023 (registration number CRD42023416996).

The Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is a critical pathophysiological process in the onset and advancement of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is well-recognized that alterations in the metabolism of lipids and aberrant fat buildup effectively trigger the development of resistance to insulin. Adjusting one's eating habits and managing weight appropriately are crucial for treating, controlling, and reducing the risk of T2DM because obesity and a lack of physical exercise are the primary factors responsible for the worldwide rise in T2DM. Omega-3 fatty acid is one of the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) that include long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, commonly found in fish oils. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs; 3 and 6 PUFAs) are essential for human health because they serve as metabolic precursors of eicosanoids, a class of signaling molecules that are essential for controlling a body's inflammation. Since humans are unable to produce any of the omega-3 or omega-6 PUFAs, they both constitute imperative nutritional ingredients. Long-standing concerns about long-chain omega-3 fatty acids' impact on diabetes management have been supported by experimental investigations that found significant increases in fasting glucose following omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and foods rich in PUFA and omega-3 fatty acid. Cellular explanations to explain the connection between inflammation and IR include mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and oxidative stress. Modifications in the lipid composition of mitochondrial membranes and/or receptor-mediated signaling may be part of the mechanism behind the activation of mitochondrial fusion by fish oil/omega-3 PUFA. The exact molecular processes by which omega-3 PUFAs control mitochondrial activity to defend against IR are still unknown.

Physical exercise, health, and disease treatment: The role of macrophages

Subclinical inflammation is linked to comorbidities and risk factors, consolidating the diagnosis of chronic non-communicable diseases, such as insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, hepatic steatosis, and some types of cancer. In this context, the role of macrophages is highlighted as a marker of inflammation as well as for the high power of plasticity of these cells. Macrophages can be activated in a wide range between classical or proinflammatory, named M1, and alternative or anti-inflammatory, also known as M2 polarization. All nuances between M1 and M2 macrophages orchestrate the immune response by secreting different sets of chemokines, while M1 cells promote Th1 response, the M2 macrophages recruit Th2 and Tregs lymphocytes. In turn, physical exercise has been a faithful tool in combating the proinflammatory phenotype of macrophages. This review proposes to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms in which physical exercise can help control inflammation and infiltration of macrophages within the non-communicable diseases scope. During obesity progress, proinflammatory macrophages predominate in adipose tissue inflammation, which reduces insulin sensitivity until the development of type 2 diabetes, progression of atherosclerosis, and diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In this case, physical activity restores the balance between the proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory macrophage ratio, reducing the level of meta-inflammation. In the case of cancer, the tumor microenvironment is compatible with a high level of hypoxia, which contributes to the advancement of the disease. However, exercise increases the level of oxygen supply, favoring macrophage polarization in favor of disease regression.

Low-Intensity Physical Exercise Decreases Inflammation and Joint Damage in the Preclinical Phase of a Rheumatoid Arthritis Murine Model

Lifestyle modifications in preclinical Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) could delay the ongoing pathogenic immune processes and potentially prevent its onset. Physical exercise (PE) benefits RA patients; however, its impact in reducing the risk of developing RA has scarcely been studied. The objective was to describe the effects of low-intensity PE applied at the disease’s preclinical phase on the joints of DBA/1 mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). Twelve mice with CIA were randomly distributed into two groups: the CIA-Ex group, which undertook treadmill PE, and the CIA-NoEx, which was not exercised. The effects of PE were evaluated through clinical, histological, transcriptomics, and immunodetection analyses in the mice’s hind paws. The CIA-Ex group showed lower joint inflammation and damage and a decreased expression of RA-related genes (Tnf Il2, Il10, Il12a, IL23a, and Tgfb1) and signaling pathways (Cytokines, Chemokines, JAK-STAT, MAPK, NF-kappa B, TNF, and TGF-beta). TNF-α expression was decreased by PE in the inflamed joints. Low-intensity PE in pre-arthritic CIA reduced the severity through joint down-expression of proinflammatory genes and proteins. Knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of PE in preclinical arthritis and its impact on reducing the risk of developing RA is still needed.

Sex differences in IL-10's anti-inflammatory function: Greater STAT3 activation and stronger inhibition of TNF-α production in male blood leukocytes ex vivo

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine production in blood leukocytes - an effect mediated by signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation. To examine potential sex-based differences in IL-10's anti-inflammatory function, we treated whole blood from healthy males and females (n=16 each; age: 28±6 years; body mass index: 23.5±2.3 kg/m²) with increasing concentrations of IL-10 (1-100 ng/mL) and quantified changes in phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) in CD14+ monocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes via flow cytometry. In parallel, liposaccharide (LPS)-stimulated whole-blood cultures were used to assess sex-based differences in IL-10's ability to inhibit tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α production. IL-10 concentration-dependently increased pSTAT3 mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) in CD14+ and CD4+ cells (main effects of concentration, P<0.01) with males exhibiting larger changes in pSTAT3 MFI in both cell types (main effects of sex, P<0.01). Accordingly, IL-10-mediated inhibition of TNF-α production was more pronounced in males (main effect of sex, P<0.01) with changes in other monocyte-derived cytokines (IL-1b, IL-1RA, IL-15) also supporting a sexual dimorphism in IL-10 action (P<0.05). These sex-based differences were not explained by differences in circulating plasma IL-10 concentrations, basal IL-10 receptor expression in unstimulated CD14+ and CD4+ cells, nor the basal expression of IL-10 signaling proteins (STAT3, SHIP1, p38 MAPK) in unstimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We conclude that IL-10's anti-inflammatory function differs between male and female blood leukocytes ex vivo. This sexual dimorphism should be considered in future work investigating IL-10's anti-inflammatory action in humans as it may represent a mechanism contributing to sex differences in overall immune function.

Transformation Mechanism of Rare Ginsenosides in American Ginseng by Different Processing Methods and Antitumour Effects

The mechanism by which ginsenosides from Panax quinquefolium L. transform into rare saponins by different processing methods and their antitumour effects have yet to be fully elucidated. Our study aimed to detect the effect of amino acids and processing methods on the conversion of ginsenosides in American ginseng to rare ginsenosides, using 8 monomeric ginsenosides as substrates to discuss the reaction pathway and mechanism. S180 tumour-bearing mice were established to study the antitumour effects of American ginseng total saponins (AGS-Q) or American ginseng total saponins after transformation (AGS-H) synergistic CTX. The results showed that aspartic acid was the best catalyst, and the thermal extraction method had the best effect. Under the optimal conditions, including a reaction temperature of 110°C, an aspartic acid concentration of 5%, a reaction time of 2.5 h and a liquid-solid ratio of 30 mL/g, the highest conversion of Rk₁ and Rg₅ was 6.58 ± 0.11 mg/g and 3.74 ± 0.05 mg/g, respectively. In the reaction pathway, the diol group saponins participated in the transformation process, and the triol group saponins basically did not participate in the transformation process. AGS-Q or AGS-H synergistic CTX, or AGS-H synergistic CTX/2 could significantly increase the tumour inhibition rate, spleen index and white blood cell count, had a significant upregulation effect on IL-2 and IL-10 immune cytokines; significantly restored the ratio of CD4⁺/CD8⁺; and significantly inhibited the level of CD4⁺CD25⁺. AGS-Q or AGS-H synergistic with CTX or CTX/2 can significantly upregulate the expression of Bax and cleaved-Caspase-3 and inhibit the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. AGS synergistic CTX in the treatment of S180 tumour-bearing mice can improve the efficacy and reduce toxicity.