Fibroblast response to rapid decompression and hyperbaric oxygenation

The cellular basis for symptoms associated with rapid decompression and the use of hyperbaric oxygenation treatment (HBO) is not established.

Image analysis, sulforhodamine B assay and bromodeoxyuridine (BrDU) incorporation were used to identify cellular changes associated with rapid decompression (RD) or hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO). Human fibroblasts were exposed to RD or HBO and compared with untreated cells. Immediately following treatment, the fraction of cells synthesizing DNA was measured by detection of cells incorporating the BrDU. At 1 d and 3 d following the treatments, total cell protein adherent to the bottom of wells was measured using a sulforhodamine B assay. Cell density was observed with light microscopy and quantified with image analysis.

RD increased total protein significantly, (p < 0.05) relative to control, while HBO had less effect. The fraction of cells synthesizing DNA was increased by HBO and reduced by RD relative to control (p < 0.05). Image analysis showed that cell density at day 1 was: control>HBO>RD; and at day 3: RD>HBO>control, indicating an increase in proliferation induced by the treatments.

This data shows that HBO and RD increase the proliferation of fibroblasts for 24 h following treatment. HBO increased DNA replication. While there was a decrease in DNA replication following RD, protein synthesis was enhanced.