Impact of Antioxidants on Mechanical Properties and ROS Levels of Neuronal Cells Exposed to β-Amyloid Peptide

This study aims to investigate the potential role of antioxidants in oxidative stress and its consequent impact on the mechanical properties of neuronal cells, particularly the stress induced by amyloid-beta (1-42) (Aβ₄₂) aggregates. A key aspect of our research involved using scanning ion-conductance microscopy (SICM) to assess the mechanical properties (Young's modulus) of neuronal cells under oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was measured in single-cell using the electrochemical method by low-invasive Pt nanoelectrode. We investigated the effects of the low molecular weight antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) on the physiological and mechanical properties of neuronal cells using SICM. Using electrochemical method and SICM, NAC effectively reduces oxidative stress and restores Young's Modulus in SH-SY5Y cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide and Aβ₄₂ oligomers. Our study first examined the influence of SOD1 on intracellular ROS levels in the presence of Aβ oligomers. The investigation into the effects of SOD1 and its nanoparticle form SOD1 on SH-SY5Y cells reveals impacts on mechanical properties and oxidative stress. The combined use of SICM and electrochemical measurements provided a comprehensive understanding of how oxidative stress, including that triggered by the Aβ oligomers affects the mechanical properties of cells.