Bioelectric medicine: unveiling the therapeutic potential of micro-current stimulation

Biomed Eng Lett. 2024 Mar 11;14(3):367-392. doi: 10.1007/s13534-024-00366-3. eCollection 2024 May.

Abstract

Bioelectric medicine (BEM) refers to the use of electrical signals to modulate the electrical activity of cells and tissues in the body for therapeutic purposes. In this review, we particularly focused on the microcurrent stimulation (MCS), because, this can take place at the cellular level with sub-sensory application unlike other stimuli. These extremely low-level currents mimic the body's natural electrical activity and are believed to promote various physiological processes. To date, MCS has limited use in the field of BEM with applications in several therapeutic purposes. However, recent studies provide hopeful signs that MCS is more scalable and widely applicable than what has been used so far. Therefore, this review delves into the landscape of MCS, shedding light on the multifaceted applications and untapped potential of MCS in the realm of healthcare. Particularly, we summarized the hierarchical mediation from cell to whole body responses by MCS including its physiological applications. Our final objective of this review is to contribute to the growing body of literature that unveils the captivating potential of BEM, with MCS poised at the intersection of technological innovation and the intricacies of the human body.

Keywords: Hair growth; Lipolysis; Microcurrent stimulation; Non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD); Skin inflammation; Therapeutic effects.

Publication types

  • Review