Anti-inflammatory effect of exercise training through reducing inflammasome activation-related inflammatory cytokine levels in overweight/obese populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
PubMed 36055106 · doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101656
What was done
Authors searched six databases through June 12, 2021, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of exercise training on circulating levels of inflammasome activation end-products (IL-1β and IL-18) in overweight and obese populations. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool, and evidence certainty was graded using the GRADE framework.
What was found
A total of 16 RCTs encompassing 779 participants were included. Exercise training reduced circulating IL-1β and IL-18. Subgroup analyses demonstrated more pronounced reductions in obese participants (compared to overweight), females (compared to males), programs using low-to-moderate exercise intensity, and interventions lasting longer than eight weeks. The abstract reports no numerical effect sizes, confidence intervals, or p-values.
Why it matters
This review links the systemic anti-inflammatory effects of regular exercise in obesity specifically to the downregulation of inflammasome-mediated cytokines (IL-1β and IL-18), highlighting the importance of sustained, moderate-intensity training.
Limits
The abstract provides no point estimates, confidence intervals, or measures of statistical heterogeneity. The overall sample size across 16 trials is relatively small (average under 50 participants per study). Only downstream cytokines were evaluated, leaving upstream inflammasome components unmeasured.
Cited by
- supports Individuals with obesity have higher circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.