Thesis
Brain-related
PBM Therapy and the Gut Microbiome: Impacts on Parkinson’s Disease
PBM therapy led to improvements in gut microbiome composition in Parkinson’s disease patients. Most participants showed beneficial shifts in the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes (F:B) ratio, a key indicator of gut health.
2021, School of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia
PBM and Neurofeedback in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: An Integrative Review
Patients undergoing PBM demonstrated greater improvements in executive function tests, including clock drawing, immediate recall, practical memory, visual attention, and task-switching.
2019, Quietmind Foundation, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA
PBM as an Innovative Approach to Enhancing the Brain’s Lymphatic Drainage System
PBM enhances cerebrospinal fluid drainage, which could be crucial for treating conditions linked to impaired brain lymphatic function.
2022, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, China
Combined PBM and Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: Enhancing Neuroregeneration and Tremor Reduction
A meta-analysis found that combining cell therapy with PBM significantly improved Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
2022, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Laser Applications in Medical Sciences Research Center, Tehran, Iran
Photobiomodulation (PBM) enhances the survival of nigral dopaminergic cells in a chronic MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's disease
This study suggests that applying combined photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy to the head, nose, neck, and abdomen has the potential to reduce or even reverse some clinical and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
2019, University of León, Department of Physical Education and Sports, León, Spain; Performance and Health Group, University of A Coruña, Spain
Near-infrared light therapy alleviates Alzheimer's disease-related pathology in two transgenic mouse models – evidence from the cerebral cortex
This study explores the effects of near-infrared (NIr) light therapy in two Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models: the K369I tau mutant (K3) and the APPswe/PSEN1dE9 mutant (APP/PS1). Over a period of 4 weeks, NIr therapy significantly reduced neurofibrillary tangles and oxidative stress markers in K3 mice, and decreased amyloid-beta plaques in APP/PS1 mice. These findings suggest that NIr therapy can alleviate and potentially reverse AD-related brain degeneration through a non-invasive approach
Department of Physiology, University of Sydney, Anderson Stuart Building F13, NSW 2006, Australia, 2014
Near-infrared light energy penetration: Can infrared light therapy effectively reach the human brain?
This review demonstrates that near-infrared light at wavelengths of 810 nm and 980 nm, with an output range of 10-15 W, has been shown to be biologically beneficial at a depth of 3 cm. This confirms that near-infrared light can penetrate to a depth of 3 cm, which is sufficient to reach the skull and brain
Synaptic Space, Centennial, Colorado, USA, 2015
Photobiomodulation (PBM) suppresses alpha-synuclein-induced toxicity in an AAV-based genetic model of Parkinson's disease
Exposing both sides of the rats' heads to 808-nm near-infrared light daily for 28 consecutive days significantly alleviated alpha-synuclein-induced motor impairments, as assessed by the cylinder test. This treatment also notably reduced the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the injected substantia nigra and preserved dopaminergic fibers in the ipsilateral striatum. These beneficial effects persisted for at least 6 weeks after the treatment was discontinued
Institute of Molecular and Chemical Biology of Neurodegeneration, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland, and Center de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de Québec, Ax Neuroscience and Department of Molecular Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, G1V4G2, Canada, 2015
810nm near-infrared light provides neuroprotection and improves motor activity in MPTP-treated mice
The study results showed that MPTP-treated mice exposed to 810 nm near-infrared (NIr) light had approximately 40% greater motor activity and about 20% more dopaminergic neurons compared to non-exposed mice. In summary, 810 nm NIr, similar to 670 nm NIr, provided neuroprotective effects and improved motor activity in MPTP-treated mice
CLINATEC, EJ Safra Centre, CEA, LETI, Grenoble University, Alpes F38000, France, 2015
Near-infrared light therapy reduces astrogliosis in MPTP-treated monkeys
The study results showed that PBM treatment significantly reduced MPTP-induced astrogliosis by approximately 75% in both the SNc and striatum. However, for microglia, PBM had a more limited effect in both nuclei; while the overall size of the cells decreased, the number of microglia remained unchanged in MPTP-treated monkeys following PBM treatment
Department of Anatomy, University of Sydney, F13, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 2016
PBM-induced changes in a Parkinson's disease monkey model: alterations in tyrosine hydroxylase cells and GDNF expression in the striatum
This study investigated the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) on tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive cells and GDNF expression in the hypothalamus. Analysis of hypothalamic slices from MPTP-treated mice, monkeys, and 6OHDA-lesioned rats showed that PBM significantly increased TH-positive cells and GDNF levels by 60-80% in MPTP-treated monkeys compared to controls. However, these increases were not observed in the less damaged mouse and rat models. This suggests that PBM's therapeutic effect is primarily associated with enhancing trophic factors like GDNF in conditions with pronounced dopaminergic loss
Department of Anatomy, University of Sydney, F13, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 2016
Brain PBM Therapy: A Descriptive Review
Brain PBM therapy enhances the metabolic capacity of neurons, promotes anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant responses, and aids in neurogenesis and synaptogenesis. Interest in PBM therapy for the treatment of conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke, brain injury, and depression is steadily increasing
2018 Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz, Iran
Photobiomodulation Therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury and Stroke
PBM uses red or near-infrared light to promote healing, enhance mitochondrial function, and improve blood flow and oxygen supply. It also reduces swelling and inflammation, decreases cell death, and promotes neurogenesis and synaptogenesis to aid brain recovery. Both animal experiments and human studies, including those involving patients with chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI), have shown improvements in neurological function, memory, mood, and cognitive abilities
2018 Harvard Medical School, Department of Dermatology
PBM for Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study suggests that applying combined photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy to the head, nose, neck, and abdomen has the potential to reduce or even reverse some clinical and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
2019, University of León, Department of Physical Education and Sports, León, Spain; Performance and Health Group, University of A Coruña, Spain
"Photobiomics": Can Light, Including PBM, Alter the Microbiome?
The gut microbiome is known to influence metabolic disorders, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune conditions, and even neurological disorders. A literature review was conducted to explore whether light exposure can impact microbiota composition. PBM (red and near-infrared light) applied to the abdomen in mice was found to modify gut microbiota in a potentially beneficial way. These effects have now also been observed in humans.
2019, Australian Research Institute, Wahroonga, Australia; University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine, Camperdown, Australia
The Effects of PBM on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Induced Dopaminergic Cell Loss in Male Sprague-Dawley Rats
PBM protected neurons from cell loss induced by a low LPS dose (10 µg), which typically causes 15% neuronal death. At higher LPS doses (20 µg), PBM was less effective, leading to 50% neuronal death and increased inflammation in microglia. PBM also reduced the link between motor dysfunction and lesion size at higher LPS doses, suggesting potential motor function recovery beyond the substantia nigra.
2019, Department of Anatomy and Histology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
Integrative Review of PBM and Neurofeedback for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease
PBM therapy significantly improved executive functions, including clock drawing, immediate memory recall, practical memory, visual attention, and task-switching (Trails A & B).
2019, Quietmind Foundation, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA
PBM Reduces MPTP-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Leakage in Parkinson’s Disease Models
PBM using low-intensity red light significantly reduced cerebrovascular damage in MPTP-treated mice. After MPTP administration, blood-brain barrier leakage was detected in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and caudate-putamen (CPu). PBM treatment restored barrier integrity, with levels comparable to the saline-injected control group.
2019, Department of Physiology & Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
PBM Therapy for Brain Aging
PBM enhances brain metabolism, blood flow, mitochondrial function, and vascular health. Human studies indicate PBM improves cognitive functions such as attention, learning, memory, and mood in older adults.
2021, University of Texas, Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, USA
Current and Future Applications of PBM in Central Nervous System Diseases
A review of 95 studies concluded PBM is widely applicable in treating: Stroke, Traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Major depressive disorder
2021, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
PBM and the Glymphatic System: A Promising Approach for Enhancing Brain Lymphatic Drainage
PBM may promote lymphatic drainage inside and outside the skull, suggesting a new strategy for treating cerebrospinal fluid-related brain diseases.
2022, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
Microbiome Changes After PBM Therapy in Parkinson’s Patients: A Retrospective Study
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options. The gut microbiome is a potential target for therapeutic intervention. This study retrospectively analyzed fecal samples from a previous trial where PBM improved symptoms. After 12 weeks of PBM applied to the abdomen, neck, head, and nose, researchers observed beneficial changes in the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes (F:B) ratio, a key gut health marker.
2022, School of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia
Effects of PBM Therapy on Parkinson’s Disease: Microbiome Changes Post-Treatment
PBM therapy led to gut microbiome improvements in Parkinson’s patients. Most participants showed positive changes in the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes (F:B) ratio, a key indicator of gut health.
2021, School of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia
Photobiomodulation: An Emerging Therapy for Depression
PBM shows beneficial effects in patients with major depressive disorder, including those resistant to conventional or adjunctive treatments.
2023, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation, USA
PBM Therapy for Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Optimal PBM wavelengths were identified as 665 nm and 810 nm. PBM had positive effects on cell survival, inflammation reduction, proliferation, and metabolism, especially when treatment was initiated within 4 hours post-injury and applied up to 3 times per day in localized cases.
2023, University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK ________________________________________
The Brain Waste Clearance System and Sleep: PBM as an Innovative Nighttime Therapy for Neurological Disorders
Recent research confirms that sleep activates the brain's waste clearance system, essential for removing neurotoxins from the central nervous system (CNS). This system is linked to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Researchers propose that stimulating this system with PBM during deep sleep could enhance CNS protection and delay the onset of neurological diseases.
2023, Humboldt University, Institute of Physics, Berlin, Germany
The Beneficial Role of PBM in Neurodegenerative Diseases
PBM is being studied for its potential to improve Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke. Researchers suggest that PBM could provide a safer alternative to traditional pharmacological treatments.
2023, National Cheng Kung University & Academia Sinica, International Graduate Program in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, Taipei, Taiwan
A Brief Review of Low-Level Light Therapy for Mood Disorders
PBM therapy increases ATP production, improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation, promotes healing, and stimulates stem cell growth. Preclinical studies indicate that PBM may enhance cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients, relieve motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease, and reduce depressive symptoms.
2023, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia ________________________________________
Remote PBM Targeting the Abdomen or Legs Provides Neuroprotection in Parkinson’s MPTP Models
PBM protected key neural pathways affected by MPTP-induced Parkinson’s disease (PD). The abdomen and legs were both effective as remote PBM therapy targets.
2023, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
Restoring Cognitive Function in Chronically Stressed Rats via Brain-Gut PBM Therapy: The Role of Sirt1 and Neuroinflammation
Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) protocols significantly induced behavioral deficits and increased hippocampal Sirt1 levels. PBM therapy reversed cognitive impairment caused by CUMS. PBM normalized hippocampal Sirt1 levels, prevented spine density loss in the CA1 region, altered gut microbiota composition, reduced neuroinflammation, and regulated microglial morphology.
2024, University of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience Institute, Spain ________________________________________
The Impact of PBM Brain Therapy on Neurological and Psychological Disorders
PBM enhances neuronal metabolism, supports neurogenesis, and reduces inflammation. Success in depression treatment has sparked interest in PBM’s potential for Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
2024, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
Parkinson’s Disease and PBM: A Therapeutic Possibility
PBM improves mitochondrial function, increases ATP production, and reduces inflammation. Clinically, PBM aids in wound healing, pain management, and swelling reduction. It has shown potential neuroprotective effects and symptom relief in Parkinson’s disease.
2024, NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, Australia
PBM for Neuropathic Pain Management (808 nm)
Data suggests that 808 nm PBM reduces neuropathic pain. Higher energy densities (20 and 40 J/cm²) were more effective and stimulated greater β-endorphin production.
2017, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Department of Physical Therapy, São Carlos, Brazil
PBM Therapy for Post-Operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD): Evidence from Cytoskeletal Assembly/Disassembly
PBM effectively reduced neuroinflammation and provided pain relief by influencing cytoskeletal dynamics.
2015, University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine, Sydney, Australia
Stopping Neurodegeneration with Light: The Potential of Near-Infrared Therapy for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease
Though still in early research stages, near-infrared (NIr) therapy shows promise as a safe and effective neuroprotective treatment for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients.
2015, Department of Physiology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
PBM Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: A Prospective Proof-of-Concept Study
PBM was found to be a safe and potentially effective treatment for various clinical signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
2021, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
주요 우울 장애를 위한 경두개 광생물조절의 리뷰: 뇌 대사, 염증, 산화 스트레스 및 신경생성을 목표로 함
이 논문에서 검토한 예비 데이터는 우울증, 불안, 인지 장애 치료에 대한 경두개 PBM의 효과를 제안한다.
2016년, 미국 매사추세츠 주 보스턴 02114, 보우도인 스퀘어 1번지 6층, 매사추세츠 종합병원 우울증 임상 및 연구 프로그램
PBM for Neuropathic Pain Management (808 nm)
Data suggests that 808 nm PBM reduces neuropathic pain. Higher energy densities (20 and 40 J/cm²) were more effective and stimulated greater β-endorphin production.
2017, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Department of Physical Therapy, São Carlos, Brazil
Remote PBM Targeting the Abdomen or Legs Provides Neuroprotection in Parkinson’s MPTP Models
PBM protected key neural pathways affected by MPTP-induced Parkinson’s disease (PD). The abdomen and legs were both effective as remote PBM therapy targets.
2023, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
Transcranial or Whole-Body PBM Therapy Improves COVID-19 Brain Fog
PBM therapy significantly improved cognitive performance in individuals experiencing brain fog post-COVID-19. These benefits were sustained for at least five months.
2023, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, West Virginia, USA
