Moderate exercise increases natural killer cell cytotoxicity after allogeneic paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of moderate physical exercise on Natural Killer (NK) cell phenotype and cytotoxicity during the early period after allogeneic T cell depleted graft stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients. 8 patients were randomly assigned, with 4 assigned to an exercise group and 4 to a control group. A Bachelor of Science in Physical Activity and Sport designed moderate physical exercise program (strength and endurance). Each exercise session took about 60 minutes and was scheduled 3 times a week during 10 weeks. Physical training program consisted on mixed supervised (at intrahospitalary gym) and home-based exercise program using Wii device, Wii Fit and/or Wii Sports software. NK immune phenotype by multiparametic flow cytometry and cytotoxic activity against K562 cell line by real time fluoerescence were measured before and after physical intervention in both groups. The result was that patients in the exercise group have a more mature NK cell phenotype and an increase on NK cell cytotoxicity. In conclusion, moderate physical exercise should be a NK cell stimulus early after allogeneic T cell depleted graft stem cell transplantation in pediatric patients. These findings suggest that moderate exercise could be a beneficial adjuvant posttransplant tool in paediatric allogenic stem cell transplantation.