Photobiomodulation—Underlying Mechanism and Clinical Applications

This review explains photobiomodulation (PBM), also called low-level laser therapy, and discusses its biological mechanisms and medical applications. PBM uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes without causing heat damage. The article reviews how PBM interacts with cells, particularly mitochondria, and how this may support healing, reduce inflammation, and improve tissue repair.

Key points:

• Cellular mechanism – PBM primarily affects mitochondria, especially cytochrome c oxidase, increasing ATP production, modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), and influencing signaling pathways that support cell survival and repair.
• Tissue repair and regeneration – PBM can stimulate cell proliferation, collagen production, angiogenesis, and stem cell differentiation, helping wound healing and tissue regeneration.
• Anti-inflammatory and pain relief effects – The therapy may reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and pain in several conditions.
• Clinical applications – PBM has been studied in wound healing, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological diseases, oral medicine, dermatology, and dentistry.
• Dose matters – Treatment outcomes depend heavily on wavelength, energy density, duration, and treatment timing. Improper dosing may reduce benefits.
• Safety and potential – PBM is generally considered non-invasive and promising, but more standardized clinical studies are needed to optimize protocols.

Simple takeaway:
PBM is a promising light-based therapy that may help healing, reduce inflammation, and improve tissue repair by influencing cellular energy and signaling, but its effectiveness depends on using the right treatment parameters.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7356229/