Mechanisms and Mitochondrial Redox Signaling in Photobiomodulation
Abstract
Photobiomodulation (PBM) involves the use of red or near‐infrared light at low power densities to produce a beneficial effect on cells or tissues. PBM therapy is used to reduce pain, inflammation, edema, and to regenerate damaged tissues such as wounds, bones, and tendons. The primary site of light absorption in mammalian cells has been identified as the mitochondria and, more specifically, cytochrome c oxidase (CCO). It is hypothesized that inhibitory nitric oxide can be dissociated from CCO, thus restoring electron transport and increasing mitochondrial membrane potential. Another mechanism involves activation of light or heat‐gated ion channels. This review will cover the redox signaling that occurs in PBM and examine the difference between healthy and stressed cells, where PBM can have apparently opposite effects. PBM has a marked effect on stem cells, and this is proposed to operate via mitochondrial redox signaling. PBM can act as a preconditioning regimen and can interact with exercise on muscles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Jan 19, 2018
- Source ID
- 10.1111/php.12864
Entities
People
- Michael R. Hamblin
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Harvard Medical School
- Massachusetts General Hospital
- National Institutes of Health
- United States Army Medical Research and Development Command