Brain Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Narrative Review
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This review examines brain photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, a non-invasive treatment that uses red to near-infrared light to influence brain function and neurological health. The article discusses the biological mechanisms, light-delivery methods, and emerging evidence for PBM in treating neurological and psychological disorders. It highlights how PBM may improve neuronal metabolism, reduce inflammation, and support brain repair, while also discussing challenges in delivering enough light through brain tissue.
Key points:
- Mechanism of action – PBM primarily affects mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, helping increase ATP production, regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and improve cellular metabolism.
- Neuroprotection and repair – It may promote neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, anti-apoptotic effects, and reduced neuroinflammation.
- Potential neurological applications – PBM has been studied in stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
- Improves brain function – Some studies suggest benefits in cerebral blood flow, antioxidant defense, memory, cognition, and mood regulation.
- Light delivery challenges – One major limitation is reduced light penetration through scalp and skull, which may affect treatment effectiveness.
- Alternative delivery methods – The review discusses transcranial, intranasal, and intracranial PBM strategies to improve light access to target brain regions.
- Future direction – PBM is promising, but more standardized human clinical trials are needed to determine ideal wavelengths, dosage, and protocols.
Simple takeaway:
Brain PBM therapy shows potential as a non-invasive approach to improve brain metabolism, reduce inflammation, and support neurological recovery in several brain disorders, but stronger clinical evidence and optimized delivery methods are still needed.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6041198/