Resistance Exercise, IL-7 and Immune Phenotypes in Prostate Cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effects of Resistance Exercise on IL-7 and Immune Cell Phenotypes in Men with Prostate Cancer Receiving Androgen Deprivation Therapy Prior to Radiotherapy: A Pilot Study
IRAS ID
371008
Contact name
John Campbell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bath
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 2 months, 30 days
Research summary
Hormone therapy is a highly effective treatment for prostate cancer, but it causes significant side effects, including the rapid loss of muscle mass. Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer are older and already face a natural decline in their immune system due to ageing. Skeletal muscle is now recognised as a vital "endocrine organ" that supports the immune system by releasing beneficial chemicals into the blood. One key chemical, called Interleukin-7 (IL-7), is essential for producing and maintaining healthy immune cells. We want to see if using resistance exercise (weight training) to preserve muscle mass during hormone therapy can boost IL-7 levels and strengthen the immune system.
We will recruit 40 men starting hormone therapy at the Royal United Hospital Bath. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a "Resistance Exercise Group" or a "Usual Care Group." The resistance exercise group will complete three supervised sessions per week for 12 weeks at the University of Bath or the hospital, with exercises tailored to their individual ability.
To compare the effects of the resistance exercise programme against standard care, all 40 participants will attend two assessment visits (at the start and after 12 weeks). These visits involve body scans to measure muscle and fat, as well as tests for strength and physical function. We will also take blood samples to measure IL-7, immune health, and metabolism. During the final visit, we will also monitor how IL-7 reacts to this type of exercise by taking extra blood samples immediately before and after performing a single bout of resistance exercise.
Ultimately, this study aims to determine if preserving muscle mass through resistance exercise can effectively improve immune function and reduce the harsh side effects of cancer treatment. This information will help us better support the long-term health and well-being of men with prostate cancer
REC name
Wales REC 1
REC reference
26/WA/0162
Date of REC Opinion
12 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion