SOD-1/2 Involvement in the Antioxidant Molecular Events Occurring upon Complex Magnetic Fields Application in an In Vitro H2O2 Oxidative Stress-Induced Endothelial Cell Model

Endothelial function plays a key role in tissue repair. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production impairs tissue renewal and homeostasis. Complex Magnetic Fields (CMFs) have been attracting attention as a non-invasive tool to promote tissue regeneration, especially through angiogenic stimulation. The present study aims to investigate CMF effect in an in vitro model of oxidative stress-stimulated Endothelial Cells (ECs). Cells were pre-treated with H2O2 to mimic an oxidative environment, followed by the application of three CMF programs repeated in two experimental sets: two consecutive cycles (two cycles) or two cycles spaced 24 h apart (T0+T24). Flow cytometry investigation shows that both CMF applications reduce ROS production, presumably promoting SODs proteins expression. Specifically, two cycles affect mitochondrial SOD-2 expression, which may promote cellular turnover by upregulating pro-apoptotic proteins, leading to mild cell death balanced with increased cell viability. T0+T24 application promotes cytosolic SOD-1 expression, which may influence the expression and release of antioxidant molecules, as evidenced by the increased protein levels of Akt/Nrf2 and the overall antioxidant activity measured post-treatment. In conclusion, ROS-induced EC dysfunction can be reverted by CMF application: 2 cycles could be applied when cellular renewal is required (such as in pathological wounds) while T0+T24 could be useful when an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect is needed (e.g., in edema or muscular lesions).