Photobiomodulation for Traumatic Brain Injury and Stroke (2018)

This review examined the use of photobiomodulation (PBM)/low-level light therapy using red and near-infrared (NIR) light as a potential treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke. It focused on biological mechanisms, preclinical findings, and early clinical applications.

Key findings:

• Neuroprotection: PBM may help protect brain tissue from cell death after injury.
• Improved mitochondrial function: Red/NIR light may enhance ATP production and cellular energy metabolism, supporting recovery of injured neurons.
• Reduced inflammation & oxidative stress: PBM may help modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce secondary brain damage.
• Neurogenesis & synaptogenesis: Research suggested PBM could stimulate formation of new neurons and neural connections, which may aid recovery.
• Improved cerebral blood flow: PBM may increase local blood circulation and oxygen delivery in brain tissue.
• Potential clinical applications: Early evidence suggested possible benefits in cognitive recovery, neurological rehabilitation, and symptom improvement after TBI and stroke, though human studies were still limited.

Conclusion:

The review concluded that photobiomodulation is a promising non-invasive adjunct therapy for TBI and stroke recovery, mainly through neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, and regenerative effects. However, the authors emphasized that larger controlled human trials are needed to confirm efficacy and optimize treatment parameters such as wavelength, dose, and timing.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29131369/