Photobiomodulation (PBM)

Photobiomodulation (PBM): Mechanisms, Applications, and Clinical Insights

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy, uses red and near-infrared (NIR) light to stimulate cellular processes, reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing. Its applications span dermatologic conditions, wound healing, and neurological disorders.

PBM primarily affects mitochondria and other cellular structures:

Cytochrome C Oxidase Activation:
- Light absorption by cytochrome c oxidase enhances mitochondrial ATP production, improving cellular energy metabolism1 2 4.
- Nitric oxide (NO) dissociation increases oxygen utilization and reduces oxidative stress4.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Modulation:
- PBM generates ROS in normal cells but reduces ROS levels in oxidatively stressed cells, promoting antioxidant defenses1 4.
Calcium Ion Channels:
- Light-sensitive channels modulate calcium influx, triggering signaling cascades that activate transcription factors for cell survival and proliferation 1 4.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
- PBM reduces inflammatory markers (e.g., reactive nitrogen species and prostaglandins), particularly in activated macrophages and brain tissues1 2.
Photophysical Mechanisms:
- Emerging research highlights biophotonic signaling and mechanotransduction effects on cytoskeletal structures and ion channels, influencing cellular oscillations and neural activity3.

PBM is used in diverse clinical contexts:

Neurological Disorders:
- Reduces inflammation in the brain and improves recovery in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s 1 3.
- Enhances functional outcomes in stroke recovery and traumatic brain injury (TBI)4.
Pain Management:
- Effective for musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair1 5.
Wound Healing:
- Stimulates stem cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation for faster tissue recovery4 6.
Precision Medicine:
- Targeted wavelengths can treat conditions involving dysregulated cytoskeletal or protein activity (e.g., Crigler-Najjar syndrome)3.

Non-invasive with minimal side effects.
Biphasic dose response: Low doses stimulate healing; high doses inhibit cellular activity1.

PBM is a promising therapeutic modality that leverages light to enhance cellular function and reduce inflammation. Its applications extend across neurological disorders, pain management, wound healing, and precision medicine.

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At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing various health conditions. If you have questions about Photobiomodulation (PBM) or would like more information on our services, consult with our experts today!