Alternating current stimulation promotes neurite outgrowth and plasticity in neurons through activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

In this study, immunofluorescence staining and Sholl analysis are used to assess changes in the neurite number and axon length to determine the optimal pattern and stimulation parameters of ES for neurons. Neuronal death and plasticity are detected by TUNEL staining and microelectrode array assays, respectively. mRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis are applied to predict the key targets of the action of ES on neurons, and the identified targets are validated by western blot analysis and qRT-PCR. The effects of alternating current stimulation (ACS) on neurons are more significant than those of direct current stimulation (DCS), and the optimal parameters are 3 μA and 20 min. ACS stimulation significantly increases the number of neurites, the length of axons and the spontaneous electrical activity of neurons, significantly elevates the expression of growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43) without significant changes in the expression of neurotrophic factors. Furthermore, application of PI3K/AKT-specific inhibitors significantly abolishes the beneficial effects of ES on neurons, confirming that the PI3K/AKT pathway is an important potential signaling pathway in the action of ES.PMID:37814815 | DOI:10.3724/abbs.2023238
Source: Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Source Type: research