Photo: UBCO
The University of British Columbia, Okanagan, is investigating the relationship between exercise and the reduction of chronic inflammation.
UBCO researchers Dr. Jonathan Little and Dr. Hashim Islam have explained how chronic inflammation can prevent a person’s immune system from protecting them, and how exercise is the answer. I am studying.
Dr. Little is an associate professor and both postdoctoral fellows, Dr. Islam, belong to the UBC Okanagan School of Health and Exercise Sciences.
“Chronic inflammation is when the body is out of balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules. In the context of chronic disease, we use the example of slow-burning flames or brakes,” explains Dr. Little. To do.
“Most people are studying pro-inflammatory molecules and how to reduce them. This is similar to removing fuel from the fire. Our very novel research is similar to a fire extinguisher. , We are investigating ways to stop inflammation by making anti-inflammatory molecules like interleukin-10 function more effectively. “
Dr. Islam says the immune system is important for preventing infections, eliminating pathogens, and repairing damaged tissue during recovery from illness or injury. However, when immune cells are overactivated, they can overproduce and release small hormone-like molecules that can impair the normal functioning of important tissues and organs in the body.
“This persistent state of immune cell overactivation is known as chronic inflammation and is associated with the onset and progression of various long-term illnesses commonly found in modern society. These include hypertension. It includes cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and stroke and type 2 diabetes. I am particularly interested in studying aspects of type 2 diabetes, “says Dr. Islam.
Lifestyle factors such as nutritional imbalances, weight gain, obesity, and lack of exercise can exacerbate chronic inflammation, Dr. Little adds. These conditions increase the likelihood of contracting a variety of cardiometabolic disorders. On the other hand, weight loss through exercise and diet is effective in reducing chronic inflammation in the body and reducing the risk of developing cardiometabolic disorders.
Researchers in particular explain the mechanism by which interleukin 10, a molecule that normally acts to suppress inflammation, and why and when interleukin-10 does not work well to suppress inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. I am paying attention to. The goal is to have a practical lifestyle intervention with short, frequent activities (postprandial walking and exercise snacks) throughout the day to improve blood glucose levels and restore the anti-inflammatory effects of interleukin-10. It is to carry out.
“This approach has shown that people with type 2 diabetes have the effect of lowering blood sugar levels,” says Dr. Islam. “Given the previously identified association between hyperglycemia and impaired interleukin-10 action, this is a viable non-pharmacological science for restoring anti-inflammatory cytokine action in people with type 2 diabetes. It could be a strategic strategy. “
