High-Frequency Repetitive Magnetic Stimulation Activates Bactericidal Activity of Macrophages via Modulation of...

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Biology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Repetitive magnetic stimulation (rMS) effects are primarily studied in excitable cells.
• Limited research exists on rMS impact on non-excitable cells like macrophages.
• Macrophages are key players in innate immune defense.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the effects of rMS on macrophage function.
• Determine if rMS can enhance macrophage defense against bacterial pathogens.
• Explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of rMS in macrophages.

Main Methods:

• THP-1 derived macrophages were subjected to 10 Hz rMS for 5 minutes.
• Nrf2 activation, Keap1 expression, and p62 phosphorylation were analyzed.
• Intracellular survival of Staphylococcus aureus was assessed.
• Nrf2 silencing (siRNA) and knockout macrophages were used to confirm Nrf2 dependency.
• Inflammatory gene expression (IL-1β, TNF-α) and p38 MAPK activation were measured.

Main Results:

• rMS increased Nrf2 activation and decreased Keap1 expression in macrophages.
• Nrf2 pathway activation was dependent on rMS-induced p62 phosphorylation.
• rMS significantly reduced intracellular Staphylococcus aureus survival.
• Nrf2 silencing or knockout abolished the anti-bacterial effect of rMS.
• rMS attenuated S. aureus-induced expression of IL-1β and TNF-α and inhibited p38 MAPK activation.

Conclusions:

• rMS activates the non-canonical Nrf2 pathway in macrophages.
• rMS modulates macrophage function, enhancing host defense against bacterial infections.
• rMS demonstrates potential as a therapeutic strategy for combating bacterial pathogens.