This study investigated the impact of 808 nm laser photobiomodulation (PBM) on mitochondrial respiration and osteogenic protein expression (OCN, OPN, ALP, RUNX2, COL-1, BMP-2) in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) within a 3D hydrogel model. hDPSCs were isolated from third molars and maintained under hypoxic conditions. Cells received PBM at 5 and 15 J/cm2 using an 808 nm diode laser. The study showed that 808 nm PBM can alter mitochondrial respiration, with 5 J/cm2 enhancing osteogenic protein expression (OCN, ALP, OPN, RUNX2) but failing to sustain BMP-2 at 24 h. In contrast, 15 J/cm2 induced stronger upregulation and prolonged BMP-2 expression, suggesting an optimal dose for sustained osteogenic activity. BMP-2 was later downregulated, and COL-1 remained unchanged post-PBM. Importantly, this study indicates the dose-specific PBM modulation of mitochondrial respiration and protein expression, but further research is required to optimize treatment protocols.
Details
Title
Mitochondrial Oxygen Consumption and Immunocytochemistry of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cell Following 808 nm PBM Therapy: A 3D Cell Culture Study
Authors
Simone L. Sleep - Griffith University
Eliza Ranjit - Griffith University
Jennifer Gunter - Queensland University of Technology
Deanne H. Hryciw - Griffith University
Praveen Arany - University at Buffalo, State University of New York
Roy George (Corresponding Author) - Griffith University