Effects of an Exercise Test on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by an increase in oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation. The effects of an exercise test at 60-70% of the maximum capacity was evaluated on inflammatory and antioxidant response in elderly people suffering from metabolic syndrome. Exercise induced significant increases in plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines and malondialdehyde. The expression of these cytokines and antioxidant enzymes were also increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In addition, plasma levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha were unchanged. In conclusion, the exercise test induces a situation of oxidative stress that promotes the activation of a proinflammatory cytokine cascade.