Effect of Laser Irradiation on Mitochondrial Responses of Stressed Keratinocytes

Photobiomodulation activates the mitochondrial respiratory chain components which initiates signalling cascades that promotes cellular proliferation and cytoprotection. Human keratinocyte cell cultures were modified to induce changes in mitochondrial membrane potential so that the effect of laser irradiation could be investigated. Control conditions included normal keratinocytes and cells treated with p-(tri-fluoromethoxy) phenyl-hydrazone (FCCP), 2-deoxyD-glucose (2-DOG) and oligomycin. Experimental conditions were used to induce sub-cytotoxic stress namely; keratinocytes grown in media without bovine pituitary extract (BPE), UVC irradiation and tBHP (tert-hydroperoxide). Results confirm that laser irradiation stimulates the mitochondrial respiratory chain to bring about an increase in ATP production, which ultimately results in photobiomodulation to restore homeostasis of stressed cells.