The Effect of Resistance Training with Theraband on the Transforming Growth Factor-β in the Elderly Women

Background: Ageing and physical inactivity can negatively affect immune system. On the contrary, a healthy lifestyle and physical activity can improve immune system and prevent from mild inflammatory diseases. Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) can play an important role in the regulation of immune function and inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of theraband resistance training on the plasma level of TGF-β in the elderly women. Materials and Methods: Eighteen inactive elderly women were selected and randomly assigned to either theraband (n=10) and control (n=8) groups. The theraband group attended 24 exercise sessions conducted over an 8-week period (3 sessions/week). Exercise load was increased according to the color of theraband. The TGF-β level in plasma was measured by ELISA. Results: Mean±SD plasma level of TGF-β in the theraband group (39.42±9.46) significantly decreased compared to that in the control group (64.26±21.39) (P=0.031). Conclusion: The results showed that lower level of TGF-β and improvement of immune system following resistance training may (at least partially) protect the elderly women against infectious and inflammatory diseases.