Photobiomodulation Therapy Minimizes the DNA Damage in 5FU-Treated Gingival Fibroblasts

Flávia Cristina Perillo Rosin1, Cristina de Paula Novaes1, Anaeliza Figueiredo Dos Santos1

  • 1Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.

Insights

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) can protect gingival fibroblasts from 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) genotoxicity. Short PBMT irradiation (6 seconds) reduced DNA damage and oxidative stress, while longer durations increased risks.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Cell Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) is a chemotherapy drug for solid tumors.
  • 5FU can cause oral mucositis, a common side effect.
  • Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) shows potential for preventing and treating oral mucositis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate PBMT's effect on DNA damage and repair in gingival fibroblasts exposed to 5FU.
  • To assess PBMT's impact on oxidative stress induced by 5FU.
  • To determine if PBMT influences 5FU-induced genotoxicity in oral cells.

Main Methods:

  • Primary gingival fibroblasts were exposed to 5FU.
  • Cells were treated with a 660 nm laser at varying irradiation times (6, 10, or 20 seconds).
  • DNA damage (H2AX), DNA repair (p53), and lipid peroxidation were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • 6-second PBMT irradiation significantly decreased DNA damage and lipid peroxidation.
  • All PBMT groups exhibited reduced H2AX levels and increased p53 expression.
  • 10-second and 20-second PBMT irradiation showed trends toward increased lipid peroxidation and DNA damage.

Conclusions:

  • PBMT's effect on DNA damage and repair is irradiation time-dependent.
  • A 6-second PBMT irradiation (6.6 J/cm²) protects gingival fibroblasts from 5FU-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress.
  • Longer PBMT irradiation times (10s and 20s) may increase DNA damage risk post-5FU exposure.