Acute effect of two exercise intensity programs on interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta and tumour necrosis factor-α in female futsalists

Duration, intensity, and type of exercise can affect serum cytokine levels and change inflammatory indices. The present study aimed to examine the acute effect of two different exercise intensity programs on levels of circulating interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1 beta and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in athletes. Eleven female futsal players aged 20.6 +/- 1.2 years completed this cross-over study. Participants performed, either a MI (moderate intensity: 60-65%) or a HI (high intensity: 75-80% heart rate reserve) exercise program. The study was performed on different days separated by a 1-week washout period. Each session consisted of 30 min running, either MI or HI. Blood samples were taken before (Pre) and immediately after (Post) each exercise session from an antecubital vein by venous puncture in a seated position. A Student's t-test (P<0.05) was used to examine any difference between Pre and Post values. The results showed that IL-6 (P=0.22), IL-1 beta (P=0.90) and TNF-alpha (P=0.63) serum concentrations were not significantly different after moderate-intensity exercise. Similarly, high-intensity exercise did not significantly change serum concentrations of TNF-alpha (P=0.63), and IL-1 beta (P=0.18). However, HI caused a significant increase in IL-6 (P=0.04). A significant correlation was observed only between IL-1 beta and IL-6 (r=-0.761, P=0.01) after MI exercise. Based on the findings of the present study, the intensity of exercise can affect some cytokines, such as IL-6 in female futsal players.