The evaluation of the osteoblast differentiation markers of mesenchymal stem cells derived from rat adipose tissue and modulated by photobiomodulation therapy

Abstract

Bone tissue engineering is a therapeutic approach based on the combination of scaffolds, growth factors, and cells. Regarding the cells, adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSC) can be easily harvested at lesser morbidity. However, its use is limited due to its lower less osteogenic potential. In this context, strategies to increase the therapeutic potential of MSCs or "Cell Priming" have been investigated, and photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy emerges as an alternative. The PBM is a non-invasive treatment that decreases oxidative stress and has been related to an improvement in bone repair. Based on results from our group that indicated that PBM increases the production of the mineralized matrix of rat AT-MSC, we aim to investigate, in a temporal manner, the expression of bone markers genes and proteins of these cells. For this, cells will be cultured in an osteogenic medium and exposed to PBM therapy, up to 21 days, and they will be evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, gene, and protein expression of ALP, RUNX2, and OPN, and the production of mineralized matrix. Data will be evaluated using the appropriate statistical test, and the significance level will be 5%. The results of this study will clarify the potential therapeutic effects of PBM on osteoblastic differentiation of AT-MS, contributing to the development of therapeutic approaches to optimize aesthetic-functional reconstructions of bone defects. (AU)