Induction of Hsp70 in Lymphocytes by Whole Body Far-infrared Hyperthermia

Abstract

Heat shock proteins function as protein-repairing enzymes for the recovery of stress-damaged cells and defense of cells against many kinds of stress. Therefore, the effects of heat shock protein are expected to play a part in the improvement and recovery of the ability to compete in sports. In the present study, we examined whether whole body hyperthermia at 40°C-42°C for 40 minutes can induce heat shock protein Hsp70 safely and efficiently in human lymphocytes isolated from venous blood in vivo. In addition, to reduce a load of the hyperthermia, we examined the effect of teprenone on the induction of heat shock proteins by hyperthermia of half period.
The relative amount of Hsp70 increased by 2.6-fold (p = 0.051) at 48 h and 2.1-fold (p < 0.05) at 96 h after hyperthermia alone. No significant increase in the relative amount of Hsp70 was observed after the administration of teprenone (600 mg) followed by hyperthermia of half period. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the effect of the administration of teprenone on the induction of heat shock proteins by hyperthermia of half period.