Global Responses of Il-1β-Primed 3D Tendon Constructs to Treatment with Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields

Tendinopathy involves inflammation that leads to tendon breakdown. Interleukin-1β (Il-1β) plays a key role in this process by activating enzymes that degrade the tendon matrix and reducing collagen production. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy is used for pain relief and wound healing. This study examines how PEMF treatment affects Il-1β-primed 3D tendon constructs made from rat Achilles tendon cells. The goal was to understand how PEMF impacts cell behavior and gene expression related to tendon repair. The study found that PEMF exposure influences various biological processes, including extracellular matrix remodeling and inhibiting cell death (apoptosis). It also showed that PEMF increases the production of protective factors like Il-6 and Il1r2.

• 1
  PEMF exposure of Il-1β-treated 3D tendon-like constructs resulted in a change in the expression pattern of approximately 5400 genes.
• 2
  PEMF exposure drives expression of cytoprotective cytokines, including Il1r2, Csf3, Il-6, and Lif.
• 3
  PEMF treatment significantly reduces Il-1β-induced apoptosis in TDSPCs cultured in 3D.