From Light to Healing: Photobiomodulation Therapy in Medical Disciplines

This review article explores photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) and its growing role across multiple medical fields. PBMT uses low-level red to near-infrared light to influence cellular activity, especially mitochondrial function, to improve tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and support recovery. The review combines mechanistic evidence and clinical findings to show PBMT’s therapeutic potential while highlighting the need for standardized treatment protocols.

Key points:

  • Cellular mechanism – PBMT primarily acts by stimulating mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, which may improve ATP production, regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and influence nitric oxide signaling and inflammatory pathways.
  • Wide medical applications – The therapy has been studied in dermatology, wound healing, neurology, musculoskeletal disorders, ophthalmology, oncology, dentistry, and rehabilitation medicine.
  • Anti-inflammatory and tissue repair effects – PBMT may promote angiogenesis, reduce oxidative stress, modulate immune responses, and accelerate healing in injured or inflamed tissues.
  • Neurological and cognitive potential – Some studies reviewed showed possible benefits in neuroprotection, cognitive function, mood disorders, and retinal health through mitochondrial and neuroplasticity effects.
  • Wound healing and recovery – PBMT has shown promise in diabetic foot ulcers, postoperative recovery, pain reduction, and supportive cancer care (such as reducing oral mucositis).
  • Limitations and challenges – Clinical outcomes vary because of inconsistent dosimetry, wavelength selection, treatment timing, and heterogeneous study designs. Standardization is still needed.
  • Future direction – The article suggests personalized PBMT, biomarker-guided monitoring, and improved device engineering to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Simple takeaway:
PBMT is a promising non-invasive therapy with potential benefits across many medical disciplines by improving cellular energy, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue healing, but stronger standardization and personalized treatment models are needed to fully optimize its clinical use.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12967-025-07466-3

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