Biomolecular effects of low-intensity ultrasound: Apoptosis, sonotransfection, and gene expression

Biological effects of low-intensity ultrasound (US) focusing on US-induced programmed cell death (apoptosis), regulation of gene expression, and US-mediated gene transfection (sonotransfection) are reviewed. Studies have shown that US can induce apoptosis and that certain conditions can provide an optimal apoptosis induction. Sonotransfection of different cell lines in vitro and target tissues in vivo have been reported. Several genes can also be up-regulated or down-regulated by sonication. As to the potential therapeutic applications, apoptosis induction by US may induce direct and fast ways of treating tumor or cancer tissues. Systemic or local sonotransfection might also be a safe and effective gene therapy method in effecting the cure of local and systemic disorders. Gene regulation of target cells may be utilized in modifying cellular response to a treatment, such as increasing the sensitivity of diseased cells while making normal cells resistant to the side effects of the treatment. In addition, gene regulation by US may also play an important part in the enhanced healing of damaged tissues.