Photobiomodulation augments the effects of mitochondrial transplantation in the treatment of spinal cord injury in rats by facilitating mitochondrial transfer to neurons via Connexin 36

Bioeng Transl Med, 2023 · DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10473 · Published: May 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how photobiomodulation (PBM) can improve the effectiveness of mitochondrial transplantation for treating spinal cord injuries (SCI) in rats. The researchers found that PBM helps mitochondria transfer to neurons, boosting ATP production and reducing oxidative stress, leading to better tissue repair and motor function recovery. They also discovered that connexin 36 (Cx36) plays a key role in this process, as PBM facilitates mitochondrial transfer to neurons through Cx36.

Study Duration

14 days

Participants

Rats with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level 2: Animal study

Key Findings

1
PBM combined with mitochondrial transplantation increased ATP production and reduced oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis levels, thereby promoting tissue repair and motor function recovery in rats with SCI.
2
Cx36 mediated the transfer of mitochondria into neurons.
3
PBM could facilitate this progress via Cx36 both in vivo and in vitro.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates that photobiomodulation (PBM) can enhance the therapeutic effect of mitochondrial transplantation in treating spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. PBM promotes the transfer of mitochondria to neurons via Connexin 36 (Cx36), leading to increased ATP production, reduced oxidative stress, and improved motor function recovery. The findings suggest a potential method of using PBM to facilitate mitochondrial transfer to neurons for SCI treatment.

Practical Implications

Enhanced SCI Treatment

Combining PBM with mitochondrial transplantation can significantly improve outcomes for spinal cord injury patients.

Targeted Mitochondrial Delivery

Connexin 36 (Cx36) can be targeted to improve mitochondrial transfer to neurons.

Clinical Application

This combined treatment provides new insight for clinical research for SCI treatment.

Study Limitations

1
Using gene knockout mice to verify mechanisms can increase persuasiveness.
2
Mitochondria enter neurons through multiple pathways, and the influence of PBM on other pathways is not clear.
3
This article is only verified in rat models, an in-depth study of the effects and mechanisms in large animal models is the premise of the future clinical application of this technology, which is urgent for further investigation.

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