Brazilian study shows reduced inflammation and increased quality of life in patients with lung disease
A study published in the journal on Monday (12 January 2025) showed the benefits of physical exercise on the immune response of patients with COPD (severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The research was supported by the (São Paulo State Research Support Foundation). Here is it (PDF – 5 MB, in English).
The research, conducted by Juliana Tiyaki Ito-Uchoa at the Laboratory of Experimental Therapeutics of HC/FMUSP (Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo), in collaboration with other institutions, indicates the reduction of inflammatory factors and improvement of quality of life of patients.
COPD, mostly caused by smoking, is characterized by chronic inflammation and destruction of the alveolar walls, resulting in comorbidities and loss of muscle mass.
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The study focused on the imbalance between Th17 and Treg defense cells, essential in the immune response. Exercise training has been shown to be effective in increasing Treg cells “activated” and reduce Th17 cells, improving muscle strength and reducing dyspnea.
The research results demonstrate that physical exercise can inhibit the Th17 response and promote the increase in Treg cells with anti-inflammatory activity in advanced stages of COPD.
