About the Special Issue

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells and proteins that defends the body against infections and protects the body from disease causing substances, germs and cell changes. The immune system protects the body from a wide variety of pathogens, from viruses to parasitic worms, as well as cancer cells, and is able to distinguish these pathogens from healthy tissue. While the immune system is indispensable for combatting the effects of harmful microbes, it can also target the body’s own structures leading to an estimated 80-100 different diseases. 

Non-communicable chronic diseases, which are closely related to sedentary lifestyles, are the largest cause of death in the world, The immune system is sensitive to short- and long-term exercise training, and moderate-intensity exercises enhances immune-surveillance to enhance the body’s defense mechanisms against infection. Short- and long-term physical exercises modulates an individual’s immune protection with additional benefits such as psychological motivation and reductions in weight and other pre-morbid inflammatory conditions.

However, little is known about the psycho-physiological mechanisms involved in the health benefits of exercise on the immune function, and which aspects of exercise training (type of exercise, intensity, duration, frequency, etc.) is optimal. 

This research topic aims are to summarize the effects of various exercise programs on enhancing immune function and also to explore the underlying physiological mechanisms of exercise. 

In this Special Issue “Physical activity and Immune system in chronic diseases: Mechanisms and insights”, we welcome original articles, reviews, case reports, preclinical and clinical studies related to the effects of physical exercise and immune responses to various chronic diseases.

Keywords: Immune function, physical Activity, exercise, training, chronic diseases, health