Photobiomodulation-Driven Tenogenic Differentiation of MSCs in Hydrogel Culture.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Tendon healing is limited by hypocellularity and low metabolic activity, resulting in poor regeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer potential for tendon repair, but reliable tenogenic differentiation protocols remain undefined. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been proposed as an adjunct to assist differentiation, yet standardized parameters are lacking, particularly in 3D systems. This study evaluated the effects of PBM at 525 nm, 825 nm, and combined wavelengths, delivered at 5 J/cm 2 and 10 J/cm 2 , on immortalized adipose-derived MSCs (iADMSCs) encapsulated in TrueGel3D hydrogels, with the goal of optimizing parameters to support tenogenic differentiation. Immortalized ADMSCs were characterized by immunofluorescence (CD44, CD90, and CD166) and encapsulated in hydrogels. Following a single PBM exposure, differentiation was induced with transforming growth factor-β1 and ascorbic acid for 3 days, followed by the addition of connective tissue growth factor for an additional 7 days. Morphology, membrane permeability, proliferation, and gene expression were assessed at days 1, 4, and 10. The cells adopted a spindle-shaped fibroblastic morphology, forming dense cellular networks throughout the hydrogel, although without alignment due to random RGD distribution. LDH release remained low across groups, confirming biocompatibility. Proliferation rates were not significantly diff

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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