Effects of short-and long-term exercise training on cancer cells in vitro: Insights into the mechanistic associations

Abstract

Exercise is a therapeutic approach in cancer treatment, providing several benefits. Moreover, exercise is associated with a reduced risk for developing a range of cancers and for their recurrence, as well as with improving survival, even though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows that the acute effects of a single exercise session can suppress the growth of various cancer cell lines in vitro. This suppression is potentially due to altered concentrations of hormones (e.g., insulin) and cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 6) after exercise. These factors, known to be involved in tumorigenesis, may explain why exercise is associated with reduced cancer incidence, recurrence, and mortality. However, the effects of short- (<8 weeks) and long-term (≥8 weeks) exercise programs on cancer cells have been reported with mixed results. Although more research is needed, it appears that interventions incorporating both exercise and diet seem to have greater inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth in both apparently healthy subjects as well as in cancer patients. Although speculative, these suppressive effects on cancer cells may be driven by changes in body weight and composition as well as by a reduction in low-grade inflammation often associated with sedentary behavior, low muscle mass, and excess fat mass in cancer patients. Taken together, such interventions could alter the systemic levels of suppressive circulating factors, leading to a less favorable environment for tumorigenesis. While regular exercise and a healthy diet may establish a more cancer-suppressive environment, each acute bout of exercise provides a further “dose” of anticancer medicine. Therefore, integrating regular exercise could potentially play a significant role in cancer management, highlighting the need for future investigations in this promising area of research.