The Cellular Benefits of Exercise: Exerkines and Inflammation.
Researchers have developed a technique to identify and trace cell-secreted molecules, known as exerkines, produced during physical activity. The study found nearly 200 different proteins whose presence in the blood changes due to exercise, indicating that the effects of physical activity are widespread across many tissues and organ systems. The cells that were most responsive to exercise were a poorly understood type of cell named for a particular protein receptor (Pdgfra), found in many different tissues and organs. The study raises many questions for follow-up, including the role of Pdgfra cells in different tissues and the potential anti-inflammatory effects of other exerkines.