Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation (pronounced: fo-to-bio-mo-du-la-tion) is a form of light therapy that utilizes non-ionizing light sources, including lasers, LEDs, and broadband light, in the visible and infrared spectrum. It is a non-thermal process involving endogenous chromophores eliciting photophysical (linear and nonlinear) and photochemical events at various biological scales. This process results in beneficial therapeutic outcomes including but not limited to the alleviation of pain or inflammation, immunomodulation, and promotion of wound healing and tissue regeneration.
Etymology
The term "Photobiomodulation" was coined by Rodney Wolfe and his team in 1989. It is derived from the Greek words 'photo' meaning light, 'bio' meaning life, and 'modulation' meaning change.
Mechanism of Action
Photobiomodulation therapy works by emitting photons that are absorbed by chromophores within the mitochondria and cell membranes. This leads to an increase in adenosine triphosphate (ATP), reactive oxygen species, and/or cyclic AMP production, and the release of nitric oxide (NO). These signaling molecules lead to activation of downstream signaling pathways resulting in increased cellular proliferation and migration (particularly by fibroblasts), modulation in levels of cytokines, growth factors and inflammatory mediators, and increased tissue oxygenation.
Applications
Photobiomodulation has been used for a wide range of applications, including pain management, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. It has also been used in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and temporomandibular joint disorder.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Photobiomodulation
- Wikipedia's article - Photobiomodulation
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