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Global Translational Medicine Electrical stimulation in therapy and biology

Figure 2. Role of electrical signals in cell membrane function
Abbreviation: ES: Electrical stimulation.
for managing chronic inflammatory conditions and that will be relevant to both scientists and clinicians in
promoting post-surgical recovery. bioelectric medicine. Increasing the efficacy of accessible
techniques, such as BMT or developing new approaches
1.3. Review scope to address complex illnesses through ES can significantly
This review highlights the role of ES in inducing cellular impact the future of healthcare policy and practice.
changes, with a primary focus on the cell membrane as the
interface for bioelectric signals. Under the influence of ES, 2. Mechanisms of ES on the cell membrane
the cell membrane plays a pivotal role in mediating ion ES is a biophysical technique that utilizes applied electric
dynamics, receptor modulation, and signaling pathways. fields to activate several cellular responses. This interaction
In addition to cellular-level effects, the review involves the cell membrane, which is made of a non-
incorporates insights into therapeutic applications selectively permeable lipid bilayer divided into two by
that extend beyond the cell membrane. These include a selectively permeable barrier. The embedded proteins
techniques such as BMT and deep brain stimulation, regulate ion flow and facilitate cellular communication
which leverage the broader electrical properties of tissues and interaction. ES influences membrane structure and
and organs for clinical benefits. The inclusion of such function at several levels and regulates many processes,
applications demonstrates the translational potential of ES ranging from neuronal communication to cell remodeling.
in areas, such as pain management, regenerative medicine, 2.1. Membrane potential and ion dynamics
and neurological retraining. 18
The electrical potential across a membrane at rest
In addition, this review also highlights emerging determines cellular functions. This potential arises from
technologies, such as functional ES and spinal cord stimulation, differences in the intracellular and extracellular ion
which further bridge the gap between fundamental biological concentrations, which are regulated by ion channels,
insights and therapeutic innovations. These multidisciplinary pumps, and exchangers. When ES is applied, it can
approaches underscore the significance of integrating cell initiate specific ion-related changes depending on the
membrane dynamics with broader clinical applications. characteristics of the stimulus.
With the growth of the bioelectricity field, ES has
increasingly been integrated into clinical practices, playing 2.1.1. Depolarization and hyperpolarization
a crucial role in addressing current medical challenges. ES affects the membrane potential by applying an external
This study contributes to clarifying the role of the cell electrical field. Depending on the nature and strength
membrane in ES response, bringing the concept of of the stimulus, the cell may undergo depolarization,
bioelectric-based therapy closer to clinical reality. Such where the membrane potential becomes less negative, or
advancements suggest that treatments could eventually hyperpolarization, where the membrane potential becomes
be tailored to a patient’s natural electrochemical signaling more negative. This alteration is significant in excitable
patterns. Ongoing research on ES and its interaction with cells, such as neurons and myocytes. They can also trigger
the cell membrane holds great promise in discoveries action potential or alter synaptic transmission. 19

Volume 4 Issue 3 (2025) 24 doi: 10.36922/gtm.7774