Photobiomodulation Mitigates Oxidative Stress Induced by Bothrops jararacussu Venom in C2C12 Myoblast Cells

Abstract

Myonecrosis is a significant complication of Bothropic envenoming, and standard antivenom treatment is ineffective in mitigating local tissue damage. Photobiomodulation has demonstrated potential in reducing the local effects induced by Bothrops snakebite envenoming, though the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of photobiomodulation on oxidative stress in C2C12 myoblast cells exposed to Bothrops jararacussu venom. Cells were incubated with venom (12.5 μg/mL) and immediately irradiated with lasers at wavelength of red 660 nm (red) and 780nm (infrared), with energy densities of 4 and 5 J/cm2, respectively. Key indicators of venom-induced oxidative stress were analyzed, including nitric oxide (NO) levels, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production, antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase [SOD] and glutathione peroxidase [GPx]), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS).  Results showed that PBM significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lipid peroxidation while enhancing SOD activity. These findings suggest that PBM provides cellular protection, at least in part, by mitigating oxidative stress.