The Synergistic Effect of Photobiomodulation, Methylglyoxal, and Complex Magnetic Fields on Human Dermal Fibroblasts: Potential Applications for Chronic Wound Treatments.

Purpose This paper aimed to verify how a new protocol, recently proposed for treating chronic wounds due to its excellent antimicrobial properties, affects human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Methods Single and combined action of light-emitting diodes (LED), complex magnetic fields (CMFs), and methylglyoxal (MGO) on cell viability and activity of dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) were investigated. Our first objective was to exclude any toxicity of this combined treatment on these cells. NHDFs were exposed to LED light for 17 min, CMFs for 22 min, MGO, MGO + LED, and MGO + CMFs, and then were assessed for cell viability, morphology, cytoskeletal integrity, collagen type I production, and migration capacity. Results of combined treatments were compared with those of single treatments and unexposed controls. Results NHDFs exposed to both single and combined treatments maintained viability, morphology, and cytoskeletal integrity, showing no signs of cytotoxicity. MGO at low concentrations was non-toxic and, combined with other technologies, was able to confer beneficial effects on cell adhesion. LED stimulated collagen type I synthesis, and the production increased in samples subjected to the combined action of MGO + LED. CMFs notably accelerated fibroblasts' migration in scratch assays, and when combined with MGO, they further enhanced this effect. Conclusions The combined use of MGO + LED and MGO + CMFs produced more significant effects than separate treatments, probably because magnetic fields and light therapy enhanced cellular uptake and receptor sensitivity. The tested protocols were not only non-toxic but also promoted beneficial effects on the vitality and activity of dermal fibroblasts, confirming their potential in treating chronic wounds.