Current Application and Future Directions of Photobiomodulation in Central Nervous Diseases

Authors: Muyue Yang, Zhen Yang, Pu Wang, Zhihui Sun
Date: June 2021
Access Link: Neural Regeneration Research, Vol 16, No. 6, 1177

Summary

Photobiomodulation (PBM) using red or near-infrared light is a promising non-invasive therapy for neurological conditions, including stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and major depressive disorder (MDD).

PBM promotes neurogenesis, reduces inflammation, and enhances cellular metabolism. Preclinical studies show strong neuroprotective effects, but clinical trials have yielded mixed results, particularly in stroke and TBI.

For neurodegenerative diseases like PD and AD, PBM has demonstrated benefits in animal models, with limited but encouraging human data.

In MDD, PBM may improve mood by modulating neurotransmitters and oxidative stress.

Despite its potential, optimal treatment parameters require further refinement through larger clinical studies.