The Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) in Modulating Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis Related Diseases

Authors: Somayeh Jahani-Sherafat, Hooman Taghavi, Nastaran Asri, Mostafa Rezaei Tavirani, Zahra Razzaghi, Mohammad Rostami-Nejad
Published in: Gastroenterology and Hepatology From Bed to Bench, September 2023
DOI: 10.22037/ghfbb.v16i4.2687
Access Link: ResearchGate

Key Findings & Conditions PBM May Benefit

This study explores the role of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) in modulating gut microbiota and addressing dysbiosis-related disorders. PBMT, utilizing red (630–700 nm) and near-infrared (700–1200 nm) light, influences the circadian rhythm, reducing inflammation and supporting the balance of gut microbiota. The study highlights PBMT's potential in gut-related conditions and its wider therapeutic applications.

Gut-Related Benefits & PBMT Protocols from the Study

PBMT has been found to modulate the gut microbiota by:

• Increasing beneficial bacteria (Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium, Roseburia).

• Reducing harmful bacteria (Helicobacter pylori, Bacteroidales).

• Decreasing inflammation via reduced oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

• Modulating gut permeability and immune responses.

Specific PBMT Settings for Gut Health

• 808 nm (Near-Infrared Light) applied three times a week for 12 weeks improved microbiome diversity in mice.

• 630 nm and 730 nm Light reduced Helicobacter pylori and altered microbiota composition in Alzheimer’s models.

• PBM at 850 nm influenced lipopolysaccharide (LPS) reduction and metabolome composition.

Other Conditions PBMT May Benefit (as listed in the article)

Beyond gut health, PBMT has shown therapeutic potential in several clinical conditions, including:

1. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

3. Celiac Disease

4. Obesity & Metabolic Disorders (Type 2 Diabetes)

5. Neurological Disorders

• Alzheimer’s Disease

• Parkinson’s Disease

• Traumatic Brain Injury

6. Autoimmune Diseases

• Psoriasis & Acrodermatitis continua

• Autoimmune Thyroiditis

7. Spinal Cord Injury

8. Arthritis & Joint Pain

9. Wound Healing & Inflammatory Pain

10. Oral Mucositis (caused by chemotherapy)

11. Endothelial Dysfunction & Cardiovascular Disease

12. Lung Inflammation & Respiratory Conditions

13. Skin Conditions (via the Skin-Gut Axis)

Conclusion

PBMT represents a non-invasive and promising therapy for modulating the gut microbiome and treating dysbiosis-related disorders. Its benefits extend to neurological, autoimmune, inflammatory, and metabolic conditions. While early research is promising, further studies are needed to optimize dosage, frequency, and duration for different conditions.