Content compiled and selected from academic research reports and clinical data.
Contents
- Core Mechanisms
- Applications
- Research Data
Core Mechanisms
Photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) is a physical therapy that uses low-energy light to penetrate beneath the skin and stimulate cellular function through non-thermal photochemical effects. Due to its non-invasive nature and relatively low incidence of side effects, it has a wide range of applications in the medical field.
Because red and near-infrared light have relatively strong tissue penetration capabilities, photobiomodulation therapy primarily uses wavelengths within the red and near-infrared spectrum, including visible red light at 600–700 nm and near-infrared light at 700–1440 nm.
Core Mechanisms of the First Optical Window
1. Photon Absorption by Photoreceptors
Cytochrome c oxidase (CCO), located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, has a strong ability to absorb light at 660 nm and 810–850 nm.
2. Nitric Oxide Dissociation
When cytochrome c oxidase absorbs light energy, nitric oxide dissociates from the enzyme, allowing oxygen to bind again.
3. Restoration of Electron Transport
Once the mitochondrial electron transport chain is restored, the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is promoted, providing energy for the self-repair of damaged cells.
4. Downstream Biological Effects
This process activates protein transcription factor complexes, promotes fibroblast proliferation, collagen remodeling, and growth factor release, while reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreasing the excitability of pain-sensing nerve endings.
Core Mechanisms of the Second Optical Window
1. Mild Thermal Effects and Changes in Water Molecular Structure
These effects significantly accelerate the diffusion of intracellular biomolecules and the rotational rate of ATP synthase.
2. Activation of Sensitive Ion Channels
This regulates intracellular calcium ion concentrations, which in turn triggers signaling pathways involved in neural regulation and tissue repair.
Applications
Photobiomodulation therapy has a wide range of potential applications. The following table summarizes currently known fields of use. Most applications are used as adjunctive therapies alongside conventional treatments.
| Application Level | Treatment / Application | Examples / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Treatment | Oral mucositis caused by cancer radiotherapy and chemotherapy | — |
| Clinical Treatment | Dry age-related macular degeneration | — |
| Clinical Treatment | Musculoskeletal pain and soft-tissue injuries | Chronic lower-back pain, neck pain, tenosynovitis |
| Adjunctive Therapy | Wound and postoperative recovery | Diabetic foot, burns, postoperative edema |
| Adjunctive Therapy | Dermatology and aesthetic medicine | Severe acne, photorejuvenation |
| Adjunctive Therapy | Sports medicine and rehabilitation | Recovery from muscle fatigue, acute ligament strains |
| Adjunctive Therapy | Hair-loss intervention | — |
| Exploratory / Experimental | Neurological disorders | Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease |
Research Data
The document cites the following studies:
DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202100194
Whole-Organ Transcutaneous Photobiomodulation Therapy in Patients with COVID-19
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-094594
Photobiomodulation Therapy as a Preventive Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321746
The Role of Photobiomodulation in Functional Recovery Following Proximal Humerus Fracture
DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01484-x
Experimental Photobiomodulation Therapy — Alzheimer’s Disease Model
