EFFECTS OF ACOUSTIC MECHANICAL NOISE ON PHOTORECEPTOR-DERIVED RETINAL CELLS

Silence and noise are constant features of the human environment that can modulate cellular function and play a relevant role in mechanobiology. However, our understanding of mechanotransduction mechanisms remains limited, and the lack of standardised methodologies represents a significant challenge for experimental reproducibility. To address these issues, this study aimed to design a biocompatible and eco-friendly acoustic device capable of providing a controlled and standardised environment for sonobiology research. Additionally, to investigate the effects of background and white noise on cells, the 661W photoreceptor-derived cell line was used. In a first experimental approach, two passive noise-reduction solutions were tested; cell proliferation was assessed using crystal violet staining, and the expression of Ki-67, PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen), COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase 2) and CCN2 (Cellular Communication Network Factor 2) was analysed by immunocytochemistry. In a second approach, using the developed device, proliferation was quantified through CFSE (CarboxyFluorescein Succinimidyl Ester) staining followed by flow cytometry, and Ki-67 expression was assessed by immunocytochemistry. The results showed that the developed acoustic device effectively reduced incubator background noise and environmental interferences, while the passive noise-reduction solutions promoted cell proliferation. Furthermore, exposure to background and white noise decreased Ki-67, PCNA and COX-2 levels and increased CCN2 expression. White noise also induced a significant antiproliferative effect on the 661W cell line. These findings provide novel experimental evidence in sonobiology, demonstrating that acoustic modulation can alter cellular dynamics and offering a reproducible approach for future in vitro studies.