Standardized astragalus extract for attenuation of the immunosuppression induced by strenuous physical exercise: randomized controlled trial

This paper aimed to verify how a supplementation of rower’s diet with Astragalus Membranaceus Root (AMR) modulated their immune system response maximal physical exertion. The double-blind study included 18 members the Polish Rowing Team assigned supplemented group (n = 10), and placebo 8). participants performed 2000 m test on rowing ergometer at beginning end six-week intensive training camp during which received 500 mg AMR. Blood samples were obtained prior to, 1 min after completing, 24 h exertion test. levels interleukin 2 (IL2), 4 (IL4), 10 (IL10), interferon ɤ (IFN-ɣ), lactic acid determined. Subpopulations T regulatory lymphocytes [CD4+/CD25+/CD127−] (Treg), cytotoxic [CD8+/TCRαβ+] (CTL), natural killer cells [CD3−/CD16+/CD56+] (NK), TCRδγ-positive (Tδγ) determined flow cytometry. After camp, initial NK Treg sustained baseline, while Tδγ counts increased relative in group. In subgroup, decrease IL2 level reaction clearly deepened change IL-2/IL-10 induced by recovery this increased, changes AMR restored immunological balance strenuously trained athlets through stabilization positive trend towards Th1 restitution cytokine modulation.