Pre and Post-high-intensity Interval Training Delays Colon Tumor Onset in a Syngeneic Mouse Model

Abstract

Background/aim: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can trigger transient anti-tumor cytotoxicity through the mobilization of natural killer cells (NK cells) and myokines. Yet, the effects of HIIT on tumor development and microenvironment are unclear.

Materials and methods: Male C57/BL6 mice were administered either MC38 of syngeneic colon cancer cells or vehicle in a single subcutaneous injection. Before injection, the training group completed four weeks of the HIIT program (progressive swimming training, 3/week, 10-12 min, 4-6% of body weight for overload). Following injection, trained mice continued to exercise for two additional weeks.

Results: Pre and post-HIIT training was effective in preventing tumor onset (p=0.0065), maintaining body weight gain, and counteracting splenomegaly by 40% compared to the tumor group. However, HIIT had no impact on suppressing tumor growth, modifying final tumor volume, or significantly changing tumor proliferation (Ki-67), connective tissue content, or DNA double-strand damage detected by phospho-histone gamma-H2AX (γ-H2AX).

Conclusion: Pre and post-HIIT program is feasible for mice carrying a subcutaneous syngeneic tumor and effective in delaying tumor burden; however, HIIT did not alter colon tumor endpoints.

Keywords: High-intensity interval training; colon cancer; syngeneic transplantation; tumor burden.