Chemokine Receptor Profile of Circulating Leukocyte Subsets in Response to Acute High-Intensity Interval Training

Physically active individuals demonstrate enhanced immune competence. Efficient execution of effector function relies on chemokine receptor-regulated immune cell trafficking along chemokine gradients to sites of inflammation, infection, tumors, or tissue damage. This study investigates the impact of acute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on chemokine receptor expression in leukocytes. Sixteen healthy participants completed a single HIIT session, and peripheral blood was collected before exercise (Bsl), immediately after (Ex02), and one hour later (Ex60). Surface expression of selected chemokine receptors was measured using flow cytometry on CD4+ T cells, γδ T cells, NK cells, and monocytes, followed by FlowSOM clustering. NK cells, CD4+ T cells, and γδ T cells were strongly mobilized at Ex02 and returned to or below baseline at Ex60. HIIT preferentially mobilized CX3CR1+ CXCR2+ CD56dim NK cells, CD4+ T cells expressing CX3CR1hi and CCR5+, and CX3CR1+ CD56+ γδ T cells, indicating mobilization of immune cells phenotypically associated with migratory and cytotoxic potential. Proportions of intermediate and non-classical monocytes increased at Ex02 and decreased at Ex60. In conclusion, HIIT induced a rapid redistribution of leukocyte subsets with chemokine receptor profiles suggesting enhanced endothelial interaction and migratory capacity toward effector tissues.