Modulation of calcium signaling and metabolic pathways in endothelial cells with magnetic fields

Capillary Force-Driven Capture of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Calcium Phosphate Hollow-Tube Whisker Scaffolds for Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

Excessive glucocorticoid use disrupts osteogenesis and angiogenesis in the femoral head, leading to steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH), which is a significant clinical challenge. This study introduces a magnetically responsive biphasic calcium phosphate (HBCP/Fe3O4) scaffold featuring a nanoparticle-embedded hollow-tube whisker structure. The scaffold was fabricated through an in situ growth process to generate hollow-tube whiskers, followed by a capillary trapping technique that allowed the hollow-tube whiskers to capture Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), achieving uniform and efficient encapsulation. HBCP/Fe3O4 exhibited excellent magnetic responsiveness and significant biological effects under static magnetic field (SMF) stimulation. In vitro, HBCP/Fe3O4 under SMF promoted osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in a glucocorticoid microenvironment, enhanced angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and induced M2 polarization of RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells (RAW 264.7). Furthermore, HBCP/Fe3O4 under SMF stimulation orchestrated paracrine signaling from endothelial and immune cells, thereby enhancing the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Mechanistically, the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs was driven by magnetic stimulation-induced Piezo1-mediated Ca2+ influx, which activated BMP-2/Smad signaling and upregulated key osteogenic markers. In vivo, the implantation of HBCP/Fe3O4 scaffolds under SMF stimulation in a rabbit SONFH model promoted coordinated therapeutic effects, including robust bone regeneration, in situ revascularization, immunomodulation, and preservation of femoral head cartilage. Together, these findings support the clinical relevance of this magnetically responsive scaffold as a multifunctional strategy for delaying structural deterioration and facilitating comprehensive repair in SONFH.

Electromagnetic fields regulate iron metabolism: From mechanisms to applications

BACKGROUND

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs), as a form of physical therapy, have been widely applied in biomedicine. Iron, the most abundant trace metal in living organisms, plays a critical role in various physiological processes, and imbalances in its metabolism are closely associated with the development and progression of numerous diseases. Numerous studies have demonstrated that EMF exposureinduces significant changes in both systemic and cellular iron metabolism.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to summarize the evidence and potential biophysical mechanisms underlying the role of EMFs in regulating iron metabolism, thereby enhancing the understanding of their biological mechanisms and expanding their potential applications in biomedical fields.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

In this review, we have synthesized research findings and proposed the hypothesis that the biophysical mechanisms of EMFs regulate iron metabolism involve the special electromagnetic properties of iron-containing proteins and iron-enriched tissues, as well as the modulation of membrane structure and function, ion channels, and the generation and activity of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Then, the review summarizes the latest advances in the effects of EMFs on iron metabolism and their safety, as well as their impact on immunoregulation, cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, orthopedic diseases, diabetes, liver injury, and cancer.

Advances in magnetic field approaches for non-invasive targeting neuromodulation

Neuromodulation, the targeted regulation of nerve activity, has emerged as a promising approach for treating various neurological and psychiatric disorders. While deep brain stimulation has shown efficacy, its invasive nature poses substantial risks, including surgical complications and high costs. In contrast, non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, particularly those utilizing magnetic fields (MFs), have gained increasing attention as safer, more accessible alternatives. Magnetothermal stimulation has emerged as an innovative method that enables precise modulation of neuronal ion channels through localized heating induced by interaction of MF with biological tissues. This review discusses the principles of MF-based neuromodulation and highlights the critical role of ion channels in synaptic transmission, and the therapeutic potential of these advanced techniques. Additionally, it highlights key challenges such as spatial targeting precision, safety considerations, and the long-term effects of magnetic exposure on brain function. The findings presente the promise of MF-based neuromodulation as a non-invasive, highly targeted therapeutic strategy for conditions such as epilepsy, movement disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, with potential applications in chronic pain management and future clinical interventions.

Impact of a Generated Magnetic Field at the Schumann Resonance Frequency on Skin Blood Perfusion and Peripheral Pulse Amplitudes

A pilot study was conducted in six young adult male volunteers (25.8±1.3 years) to determine if there was evidence of an effect of a locally applied magnetic field at the Schumann Resonance fundamental frequency of 7.8 Hz. The field was generated by magnets attached to the shaft of an electronically controlled motor and applied for 20 minutes to the wrist region near the radial and ulnar arteries. The alternating magnetic field was activated after the subject had been supine and resting for 20 minutes. Skin blood perfusion (SBF) was measured on the thenar eminence via laser Doppler flux (LDF), and finger pulses were measured by photoplethysmography (PPG) on the index finger as indicators of localized hemodynamics and heart rate variability (HRV) determined as a measure of possible central effects. These measurements were done before magnet activation and after its deactivation, so each subject served as their own control. No separate sham procedure was used. Results showed that LDF decreased by 23.6±22.5% (p<0.05) and PPG pulse amplitude decreased by 35.5±18.7% (p<0.05) from pre- to post-magnetic field exposure based on a non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test. There was no statistically significant change in HRV, although this study did not evaluate the possibility of a different systemic effect. These pilot findings are based on a minimal number of subjects but provide new data and lay the groundwork for a more extensive investigation of this process, which seems warranted based on the present findings.

Mechanotransduction and inflammation: An updated comprehensive representation

Mechanotransduction is the process that enables the conversion of mechanical cues into biochemical signaling. While all our cells are well known to be sensitive to such stimuli, the details of the systemic interaction between mechanical input and inflammation are not well integrated. Often, indeed, they are considered and studied in relatively compartmentalized areas, and we therefore argue here that to understand the relationship of mechanical stimuli with inflammation - with a high translational potential - it is crucial to offer and analyze a unified view of mechanotransduction. We therefore present here pathway representation, recollected with the standard systems biology markup language (SBML) and explored with network biology approaches, offering RAC1 as an exemplar and emerging molecule with potential for medical translation.

Impact of static magnetic field exposure on Stim1 and Itpr3 expression in hepatic cells of obese mice

Objectives

This study investigates the effects of 2 mT static magnetic field (SMF) exposure for 1 h on the expression of Stim1 and Itpr3 genes in hepatic cells of obese mice. By examining these critical regulators of calcium (Ca2+) signaling and cellular metabolism, the research aims to elucidate the role of SMF in modulating molecular pathways essential for Ca2+ homeostasis and metabolic regulation in the context of obesity.

Materials and Methods

Liver samples were obtained from C57BL/6J mice and preserved in RNALater. The samples were divided into two main groups: the control group, which received a standard diet, and the obese group, which was exposed to a high-fat diet. Furthermore, the obese group was stratified based on the duration of SMF exposure, including intervals of 0, 2, 7, 14, and 21 days (1 h per day with an intensity of Bmax = 2 mT). Statistical tests were conducted with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results

The research findings highlighted a noteworthy increase in the relative expression of Stim1 and Itpr3 among obese mice exposed to SMF for 7 days (obe7) and those exposed for 14 days (obe14) in comparison to the obese group without SMF exposure. Both the obe7 and obe14 groups exhibited no significant difference in relative Stim1 expression when compared to the non-obese group. However, in terms of Itpr3 expression, the obe14 group did not show a significant difference from the non-obese mouse group. The results of the correlation analysis unveiled a substantial and robust correlation between the relative expression of Stim1 and Itpm3 (r = 0.627, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest a potential link between SMF exposure, the expression of Ca2+ regulatory genes, and the intricate pathways involved in obesity-related molecular responses.

Exploring Ion Channel Magnetic Pharmacology: Are Magnetic Cues a Viable Alternative to Ion Channel Drugs?

We explore the potential of using magnetic cues as a novel approach to modulating ion channel expression, which could provide an alternative to traditional pharmacological interventions. Ion channels are crucial targets for pharmacological therapies, and ongoing research in this field continues to introduce new methods for treating various diseases. However, the efficacy of ion channel drugs is often compromised by issues such as target selectivity, leading to side effects, toxicity, and complex drug interactions. These challenges, along with problems like drug resistance and difficulties in crossing biological barriers, highlight the need for innovative strategies. In this context, the proposed use of magnetic cues to modulate ion channel expression may offer a promising solution to address these limitations, potentially improving the safety and effectiveness of treatments, particularly for long-term use. Key developments in this area are reviewed, the relationships between changes in ion channel expression and magnetic fields are summarized, knowledge gaps are identified, and central issues relevant to future research are discussed.

Effects of Static and Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields on Gene Expression

Substantial research over the past two decades has established that magnetic fields affect fundamental cellular processes, including gene expression. However, since biological cells and subcellular components exhibit diamagnetic behavior and are therefore subjected to very small magnetic forces that cannot directly compete with the viscoelastic and bioelectric intracellular forces responsible for cellular machinery functions, it becomes challenging to understand cell-magnetic field interactions and to reveal the mechanisms through which these interactions differentially influence gene expression in cells. The limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying biomagnetic effects has hindered progress in developing effective therapeutic applications of magnetic fields. This review examines the expanding body of literature on genetic events during static and low-frequency magnetic field exposure, focusing particularly on how changes in gene expression interact with cellular machinery. To address this, we conducted a systematic review utilizing extensive search strategies across multiple databases. We explore the intracellular mechanisms through which transcription functions may be modified by a magnetic field in contexts where other cellular signaling pathways are also activated by the field. This review summarizes key findings in the field, outlines the connections between magnetic fields and gene expression changes, identifies critical gaps in current knowledge, and proposes directions for future research. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 4.

Enhancing Drug Solubility, Bioavailability, and Targeted Therapeutic Applications through Magnetic Nanoparticles

Biological variability poses significant challenges in the development of effective therapeutics, particularly when it comes to drug solubility and bioavailability. Poor solubility across varying physiological conditions often leads to reduced absorption and inconsistent therapeutic outcomes. This review examines how nanotechnology, especially through the use of nanomaterials and magnetic nanoparticles, offers innovative solutions to enhance drug solubility and bioavailability. This comprehensive review focuses on recent advancements and approaches in nanotechnology. We highlight both the successes and remaining challenges in this field, emphasizing the role of continued innovation. Future research should prioritize developing universal therapeutic solutions, conducting interdisciplinary research, and leveraging personalized nanomedicine to address biological variability.

Modulatory Impact of Oxidative Stress on Action Potentials in Pathophysiological States: A Comprehensive Review

Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defenses, significantly affects cellular function and viability. It plays a pivotal role in modulating membrane potentials, particularly action potentials (APs), essential for properly functioning excitable cells such as neurons, smooth muscles, pancreatic beta cells, and myocytes. The interaction between oxidative stress and AP dynamics is crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of various conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, cardiac arrhythmias, and ischemia-reperfusion injuries. This review explores how oxidative stress influences APs, focusing on alterations in ion channel biophysics, gap junction, calcium dynamics, mitochondria, and Interstitial Cells of Cajal functions. By integrating current research, we aim to elucidate how oxidative stress contributes to disease progression and discuss potential therapeutic interventions targeting this interaction.

Comparative Analysis of Volatile Components in Chi-Nan and Ordinary Agarwood Aromatherapies: Implications for Sleep Improvement

Agarwood, a precious traditional medicinal herb and fragrant material, is known for its sedative and sleep-improving properties. This study explores the mechanisms underlying the aromatherapy effects of Chi-Nan agarwood and ordinary agarwood in improving sleep. Using a combination of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques, we identified and c ompared the chemical compositions and potential molecular targets of both types of agarwood. The GC-MS analysis detected 87 volatile components across six types of agarwood aromatherapy, with 51 shared between Chi-Nan and ordinary agarwood, while each type also had 18 unique components. Ordinary agarwood was found to be richer in sesquiterpenes and small aromatic molecules, whereas Chi-Nan agarwood contained higher levels of chromones. These differences in chemical composition are likely responsible for the distinct sleep-improving effects observed between the two types of agarwood. Through network pharmacology, 100, 65, and 47 non-repetitive target genes related to sleep improvement were identified for components shared by both types of agarwood (CSBTs), components unique to common agarwood (CUCMs), and components unique to Chi-Nan agarwood (CUCNs), respectively. The constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks revealed that key targets such as MAOA, MAOB, SLC6A4, and ESR1 are involved in the sleep-improving mechanisms of agarwood aromatherapy. Molecular docking further confirmed the strong binding affinities of major active components, such as 5-Isopropylidene-6-methyldeca-369-trien-2-one and 2-(2-Phenylethyl)chromone, with these core targets. The results suggest that agarwood aromatherapy enhances sleep quality through both hormonal and neurotransmitter pathways, with ordinary agarwood more deeply mediating hormonal regulation, while Chi-Nan agarwood predominantly influences neurotransmitter pathways, particularly those involving serotonin and GABA. This study provides valuable insights into the distinct therapeutic potentials of Chi-Nan and ordinary agarwood, highlighting their roles in sleep improvement and offering a foundation for future research in the clinical application of agarwood-based aromatherapy.

Cellular and Molecular Effects of Magnetic Fields

Recently, magnetic fields (MFs) have received major attention due to their potential therapeutic applications and biological effects. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the cellular and molecular impacts of MFs, with a focus on both in vitro and in vivo studies. We investigate the mechanisms by which MFs influence cell behavior, including modifications in gene expression, protein synthesis, and cellular signaling pathways. The interaction of MFs with cellular components such as ion channels, membranes, and the cytoskeleton is analyzed, along with their effects on cellular processes like proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Molecular insights are offered into how MFs modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which are pivotal in various pathological conditions. Furthermore, we explore the therapeutic potential of MFs in regenerative medicine, cancer treatment, and neurodegenerative diseases. By synthesizing current findings, this article aims to elucidate the complex bioeffects of MFs, thereby facilitating their optimized application in medical and biotechnological fields.