Molecular mechanisms of microglia- and astrocyte-driven neurorestoration triggered by application of electromagnetic fields

Aim To propose potential mechanisms of action of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on astrocytes and microglia and to elucidate the role of heat shock proteins (HSP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), calcium ions (Ca2+), and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1 alpha) in neurorestoration following the application of EMF. Methods We reviewed the existing studies within the public domain and cross-evaluated their results in order to conclude on the molecular mechanisms of microglia astrocyte crosstalk at work during EMF treatment. Results The existing studies suggest that EMF induces the increase of HSP70 expression and inhibition of HIF1 alpha, thus decreasing inflammation and allowing the microglia-astrocyte crosstalk to initiate the formation of a glial scar within the central nervous system. Furthermore, by potentially up-regulating A2A and A3 adenosine receptors, EMF increases cAMP accumulation from astrocytes and reduces the expression of inflammatory cytokines TNF alpha and IL-8, thus initiating neurorestoration. Conclusion The microglia-astrocyte crosstalk during EMF treatment is crucial for the initiation of neurorestoration. Elucidating the exact mechanisms of EMF actions upon microglia and astrocytes, and its role in neurorestoration could be a key step in further research of the therapeutic potential of EMFs in various neurological disorders.