Microcurrent stimulates cell proliferation and modulates cytokine release in fibroblast cells

Abstract

Aims: To analyse the effects of microcurrent on L929 fibroblast cell culture. Methods: Cells were cultivated in six-well plates at densities of 5×104, 1×105, 3×105 and 5×105 cells/well to determine the best plating density. Subsequently, two methods of current application were tested: with a paper cone coupled to the electrode (M1) and with the electrode directly inside the well (M2). Then, streams of 60µA (G60), 100µA (G100), 500µA (G500) and 900µA (G900) were applied to the cells (n=3) once a day for three minutes, for a period of one (T1), two (T2) and three days (T3). The MTT assay method was used to evaluate cell proliferation. For the quantification of the inflammatory markers by flow cytometry, the group and time that presented the best results were selected. Results: The ideal plating density was established as 1x105 cells/well and M2 as the best application method. An increase in cell viability was observed at all intensities from T1 to T2, but with no significant differences. From T2 to T3, there was a decrease in viability in all groups, with a significant difference only in G500 (p<0.05). Flow cytometry was performed in the GC and G900 groups at T2. It was possible to observe an increase of 0.56pg/ml in Interleukin (IL)-17 and a decrease of 5.45pg/ml in IL-2. Conclusion: This study showed that two applications of microcurrent increases cell proliferation and modulates the inflammatory response, aiding tissue regeneration and playing a key role in rehabilitation.

Microcurrent-Mediated Modulation of Myofibroblasts for Cardiac Repair and Regeneration

“…Notably, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the impact of a weak constant direct electrical current on the transcriptional regulation of cardiac myofibroblasts, expanding the current understanding of electrical stimulation in cardiology. To date, electrical stimulation studies on cardiology have focused on fibroblast cell migration in the context of wound healing or conductive biomaterials to promote CM maturation and reprogramming, or muscle contractions, overlooking its impact on myofibroblasts [ 20 , 21 ].…”

“…Electrical stimulation can have diverse effects on cells, such as facilitating myofibroblast differentiation for wound healing [ 34 , 35 , 36 ] or increasing cell proliferation and altering ECM components [ 20 , 36 , 37 ]. The different outcomes can be attributed to several factors, such as differences in the cell types studied and the current form.…”

Microcurrent Reverses Cigarette Smoke-Induced Angiogenesis Impairment in Human Keratinocytes In Vitro

“…In contrast to other ES methods that can bypass cells, this form of MC can exert effects directly on cells [ 19 ] and may even be more effective in stimulating cell physiology and growth [ 20 ]. A recent in vitro study by Bravo et al [ 21 ] demonstrated that MC plays a crucial role in wound healing by increasing fibroblast cell proliferation, modulating the inflammatory response, and aiding tissue regeneration compared to controls. In addition, a novel “Microcurrent Dressing” that uses MC on moist wound surfaces to accelerate wound healing has been investigated and the clinical effectiveness has been verified [ 22 ].…”