Introduction:

This study evaluated the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) that have been cultured in high glucose concentration media.

Materials and Methods:

HSFs were cultured under physiologic glucose condition medium, and then cultured in high glucose concentration medium (15 mM/L) for one or two weeks prior to LLLT. Experimental HSFs were irradiated with three energy densities (0.5, 1, and 2 J/cm2) once daily on three consecutive days. Release of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were evaluated by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

Results:

Statistical analysis showed three doses of 0.5 (p=0.049), 1 (p=0.027), and 2 J/cm2 (p=0.004) stimulated the release of IL-6 in HSFs cultured in high glucose concentration medium compared to non-irradiated HSFs that were cultured in the same medium. LLLT with 2 J/cm2 induced the release of bFGF from HSFs cultured in high glucose concentration medium for one (p=0.047) or two weeks (both p=0.04).

Conclusion:

Our study showed LLLT stimulated the release of IL-6 and bFGF from HSFs cultured in high glucose concentration medium. LLLT was more effective in releasing IL-6 and bFGF while HSFs which were cultured in physiologic glucose concentration medium during laser irradiation.