In-vitro study on type I collagen synthesis in low-level laser therapy on the early ligament fibroblasts' healing process

Abstract

Background: Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has demonstrated its potential in promoting fiber matrix maturation, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast proliferation, contributing to tissue regeneration. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of LLLT on collagen type I synthesis, cell proliferation, and viability in human ligament fibroblasts derived from the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL).

Methods: Tissue samples were obtained from individuals undergoing arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery. Primary human fibroblasts were isolated, and immunohistochemical assays confirmed their characteristics. LLLT at 850 nm was administered in three groups: Low dose (1.0 J/cm²), High dose (5.0 J/cm²), and Control (0.0 J/cm²). Cell viability was calculated using a membrane integrity assay, proliferation was determined by automated counting, and collagen type I concentration in cell culture was measured using an immunoassay.

Results: Fibroblasts showed decreased viability after low and high doses of LLLT, increased proliferation at the low dose, and increased collagen synthesis at the high dose on day 10 for both sexes after treatment.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that LLLT may improve the early ligament healing process by increasing cell proliferation at the low dose and enhancing collagen type I synthesis at the high dose in human ligament fibroblasts.

Keywords: Anterior cruciate ligament; Cell proliferation; Cell viability; Collagen type I; Fibroblasts; Low-level laser therapy (LLLT); Vimentin.