Effect of Resistance Exercise on Acquired Immunocytes in Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of resistance exercise on skeletal muscle mass-related fitness and acquired immune cell function in ovarian cancer survivors. Methods: Twelve ovarian cancer survivors aged 33-61 years participated voluntarily in this study and were divided into control group (CG, n=6) and exercise group (EG, n=6). They underwent removal of ovarian cancer and received regular care for over one year. Resistance exercise was used as the intervention program conducted 4 days a week for 12 weeks. Skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and endurance were assessed at baseline and at week 12. Other dependent variables included adaptive immunocytes related to helper T (Th) cells and immunosuppressors (CD4+ and CD8+). Results: After the intervention, skeletal muscle mass showed positive changes in EG compared to CG, although not significantly different. Muscle strength and endurance significantly increased in EG, while there was no significant change in CG. Th1, Th2, and Th1/Th2 ratio were significantly different between both groups. CD4+CD25+T cells and CD4+PD-1+T cells of EG were lower than those of CG. CD8+PD-1+T cells and CD8+TIGIT+T of EG were lower than those of CG. These results can be interpreted as the improved sensitivity of CD4+ and CD8+, which helps the secretion of myokines and cytokines, when cytotoxic substances are injected into the human body. Conclusions: This study suggests that resistance training improves upon desirable changes in adaptive immune cell responses in ovarian cancer survivors by maintaining skeletal muscle mass while developing strength and endurance.