Preconditioning with Near-Infrared Irradiation to Enhance the Irreversible Electroporation Efficiency in HeLa Cells

Abstract

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) has gained attention for ablation owing to fewer side effects and fast recovery. However, a high current from the applied high voltage can cause muscle contraction. Adding cationic molecules has been introduced to lower electric field strengths and enhance IRE outcomes by inducing hyperpolarization across the cell plasma membrane. Near-infrared light (NIR) has recently been reported to induce hyperpolarization across membranes in a mode-dependent manner. In this study, we performed IRE in HeLa cells after exposure to 810 nm NIR irradiation. Preconditioning with NIR of 3 J/cm2 induced changes in membrane potential, resulting in approximately two times enhancement of apoptosis by IRE. The apoptotic signals were governed by the presence of BAX and p53 and were not related to excess oxidative stress. NIR has better spatial and temporal distribution control than chemicals and, therefore, can enhance the spatial selectivity and reduce the side effects of IRE treatment. These results can be used to enhance the clinical outcomes of IRE.