Ultra short waves alleviate ulcerative colitis via TRPV2 mediated-macrophage polarization.
Ning Yao, Wang Yong, Guo Mengnan, Mai Jiangxu, Sun Wei, Ge Zheng, Han Ke, Wang Chao, Li Qin, Wang Xia, Li Jingxin
Abstract
Ultra short wave (USW) therapy, known for its deep tissue penetration in electromagnetic waves, is clinically used to treat local inflammation and alleviate pain, yet its role in intestinal inflammation via macrophage regulation remains unclear. We investigated whether USW exerts non-thermal effects on macrophages to alleviate colitis using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse models and LPS-stimulated BMDMs/THP-1 cells. Results demonstrated that USW significantly ameliorated intestinal inflammation by directly targeting macrophages, as macrophage depletion completely abrogated its therapeutic effects. Mechanistically, USW induced distinct shifts in intracellular calcium flux and modulated cytokine expression through the TRPV2/CaMKII/Nrf2 signaling pathway. This study confirms that USW alleviates colitis by regulating macrophage polarization and calcium signaling, uncovering a distinct therapeutic pathway and highlighting the potential of non-invasive USW treatment as an effective strategy for improving colitis prognosis.
Key Findings
- Ultra short wave (USW) therapy significantly ameliorates intestinal inflammation in DSS-induced colitis mouse models.
- USW exerts its therapeutic effects by directly targeting macrophages, as macrophage depletion abolishes these effects.
- USW modulates macrophage polarization and cytokine expression through the TRPV2/CaMKII/Nrf2 signaling pathway involving intracellular calcium flux.
Clinical Significance
This study highlights the potential of non-invasive USW therapy as an effective treatment strategy for ulcerative colitis by modulating macrophage function and oxidative stress pathways, offering a novel approach to improve colitis prognosis.
Citation
Ning Yao, Wang Yong, Guo Mengnanet al.. Ultra short waves alleviate ulcerative colitis via TRPV2 mediated-macrophage polarization. iScience. 2026-Jun-19.