Immunomodulatory Effects of Photobiomodulation (2025)

This review examines how photobiomodulation (PBM) influences the immune system and inflammatory responses. PBM uses red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes, primarily by interacting with mitochondria, which can increase ATP production, regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and activate signaling pathways involved in immune modulation.

The article explains that PBM can affect both innate and adaptive immune cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, T cells, and B cells. These effects may help reduce excessive inflammation, improve tissue repair, and support immune balance depending on the dose and treatment parameters.

It also discusses PBM’s therapeutic potential in conditions such as wound healing, autoimmune disorders, infections, neurological diseases, and chronic inflammatory conditions. The review emphasizes that PBM can have either stimulatory or inhibitory effects, meaning treatment outcomes depend heavily on wavelength, dose, duration, and timing.

Key takeaway: PBM shows promising immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory benefits, but standardized treatment protocols and more clinical research are needed to confirm broader medical applications.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11991943/