Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and objectives

The effects of music on blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate and other physiological functions have been proven for several years. The effects of the music on human system have also been studied in several populations. But, this effect has not been studied in Iranians. So, we have decided to research on this matter.

Methods

In this experimental interventional study, 28 patients with allergic rhinitis (12-36 years old, with the mean age of 25) were included after application of a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The patients were divided into four groups, three interventional groups (traditional Persian, western classic, and pop music) and one control group. Seven subjects were allocated to each group based on their favorite music. Each group underwent a period of intervention for one month and blood samples were obtained before the start and after the end of intervention. Samples were examined immediately by flow cytometry according to the standards and six cellular parameters of CD3+ T cells (CD4+ and CD8+) Natural killer cells (CD16+), B cells (CD19+), and activated T cells (HLA-DR+) were measured.

Results

We found significant difference between interventional groups and the control group. The differences are as follows: CD3+ cells: atopic pop versus atopic control (Pvalue = 0.03, increase), atopic Persian classic versus atopic control (Pvalue =0.04, increase). CD4+ cells: atopic pop versus atopic control (Pvalue =0.03, increase), atopic Persian classic versus atopic control (Pvalue = 0.03, increase). Non-atopic allergic pop versus non-atopic control (Pvalue =0.01, decrease). CD8+ cells: atopic pop versus atopic control (Pvalue = 0.05, increase), non-atopic allergic pop versus non-atopic control (Pvalue =0.02, decrease), western classic non-atopic allergic versus non-atopic control (Pvalue = 0.02, decrease). CD16+ NK cells: atopic pop versus atopic control (Pvalue =0.014, increase), non-atopic allergic pop versus non-atopic control (Pvalue = 0.02, decrease) CD 19+ B cells (Pvalue = 0.07, noticeable increase).

Conclusion

Evaluation of immune cells in atopic patients who listened to pop music showed significant increase in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and NK cells, and a noticeable decrease in B cells. Therefore, it can be concluded that pop music had positive effects on atopic subjects. But, apparently, the effects of this music on non-atopic subjects are opposite i.e. CD4+, CD8+ and CD16+ cells were significantly decreased in these patients. In contrast, humoral immunity was strengthened and B cells were significantly increased.