1.Photobiomodulation as a multimodal therapy to enhance wound healing and skin regeneration
Medical Lasers 2024;13(4):173-184
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a novel approach in regenerative medicine that utilizes red and near-infrared light to enhance wound healing and skin regeneration by regulating crucial cellular processes. This noninvasive therapy stimulates mitochondrial activity, balances reactive oxygen species, and regulates gene expression to increase fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, keratinocyte migration, and collagen remodeling. PBM’s applications range from faster recovery of patients with burns and diabetic ulcers to improved cosmetic outcomes through skin rejuvenation and reduced scarring. Unlike traditional treatments, PBM addresses the multifaceted challenges of wound healing, such as prolonged inflammation and suboptimal tissue repair, by simultaneously targeting multiple pathways. Despite its transformative potential, challenges remain, such as standardizing treatment protocols and refining mechanistic understanding. With the advancement of light delivery technologies and multimodal applications, PBM is poised to become a cornerstone therapy for enhancing tissue repair across diverse clinical settings. This review provides current insights into the mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and future directions of PBM, highlighting its integral role in advancing wound care and skin regeneration.
2.Photobiomodulation therapy in neurodegenerative diseases:mechanisms, clinical applications, and future directions
Medical Lasers 2024;13(2):90-97
Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, using red to near-infrared light (600-1,000 nm), is becoming a promising non-invasive treatment for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This review examines the mechanistic insights and the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of PBM in enhancing mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating neuroinflammation. The impact of PBM therapy on cellular energy production, gene expression, and inflammatory responses provides a comprehensive therapeutic approach targeting multiple pathological pathways in neurodegenerative conditions. Preclinical studies demonstrated the potential of PBM therapy in improving neuronal health and cognitive function, while early clinical trials revealed significant benefits in motor performance and cognitive outcomes with minimal adverse effects. By highlighting the necessity for personalized PBM therapy and its integration with other therapeutic modalities, the literature aims to optimize the treatment efficacy and expand the clinical applications of PBM technology. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials are essential to validate these findings and establish standardized treatment protocols, as current promising results position PBM as a viable and innovative therapeutic option for managing and potentially altering the course of neurodegenerative diseases.
3.Restoring mitochondrial dynamics in neuronal health through photobiomodulation
Medical Lasers 2024;13(3):109-118
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Disruptions in mitochondrial fusion and fission lead to the accumulation of damaged mitochondria and elevated oxidative stress, contributing to neuronal cell death. Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, utilizing low-level laser light or light-emitting diodes, has shown promise in restoring mitochondrial dynamics by stimulating cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This enhances adenosine triphosphate production, promotes mitochondrial fusion, and reduces fission. Additionally, PBM attenuates neuroinflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine and reactive oxygen species production, creating a favorable environment for neuronal survival. This review explores the mechanisms through which PBM influences mitochondrial dynamics and its therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases. By restoring mitochondrial balance and reducing neuroinflammation, PBM offers a unique approach to mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction and enhancing neuronal function.
4.Young Men with Acute Myocardial Infarction Review of their Clinical Characteristics and Coronary Angiographic Findings.
Kyu Chang SHIN ; Ok Sik SHIN ; Byung Sam LEE ; Yong Ken CHO ; Yong Gu OH ; Chin Woo IMM
Korean Circulation Journal 1992;22(6):922-928
BACKGROUND: Not rarely we can find young people with acute myocardial infarction(AMI), many studies revealed they have fewer risk factors and less severe coronary angiographic abnormalities than middle and old aged group. METHODS: We studied clinical characteristics and coronary angiographic findings of 5 young men with AMI treated at Masan Koryo General Hospital from June 1986 June 1992. RESULTS: The age ranged between 19 and 32 years(mean 25.4). They had no other risk factors except cigrarette smoking(4 out of 5). Their coronary angiograms revealed no significant lesion in each infarct related artery. After discharge, all patient remained asymptomatic. CONCLUSION: AMI in young man might be related with cigarette smoking, and coronary artery spasm and/or thrombosis may play a significant role in its pathogenesis.
Arteries
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Coronary Vessels
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Hospitals, General
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Humans
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Male
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Myocardial Infarction*
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Risk Factors
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Smoking
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Spasm
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Thrombosis
5.Meniscus Hoop Tensioning Function of the Meniscofemoral Ligament: An Experimental Study Using the Knee Joint of the Pig.
Sung Do CHO ; Tae Woo PARK ; Jong Ken WOO
Journal of the Korean Knee Society 2002;14(2):222-228
PURPOSE: To prove experimentally if the posterior meniscofemoral ligament (PML) has hoop tensioning function for the lateral meniscus using the knee joint of the pig. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Amputated stumps with the knee joint of the pig (Yorkshire) were used. The experiment was performed under 6 conditions; 1) intact PML with intact lateral meniscus (LM), 2) intact PML with radial tear of posterior horn of LM, 3) intact PML with total lateral meniscectomy, 4) cut PML with intact LM, 5) cut PML with radial tear of posterior horn of LM, and 6) cut PML with total lateral meniscectomy. The pressure-sensitive film (Prescale,Fuji) was inserted under the lateral femoral condyle and axial loads was transmitted to the knee joint with universal testing machine (Instron, model No.4469, USA). The pressed area, maximum pressure and average pressure were measured by the Prescale imaging analysis system FDP-901E series. RESULTS: With the intact PML, there was little difference in pressed area and maximum and average pressures between the conditions of intact meniscus and radial tear of posterior horn of LM. With the cut PML, regardless of the states of the LM, pressure concentration (much decreased pressed area, and increased maximum and average pressures) occurred, which had similar results to the condition of total lateral meniscectomy with intact PML. CONCLUSION: The PML of the pig had hoop tensioning function for the LM under axial loads.
Animals
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Horns
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Knee Joint*
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Knee*
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Ligaments*
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Menisci, Tibial
6.Reprogramming Macrophage Phenotypes With Photobiomodulation for Improved Inflammation Control in ENT Organ Tissues
Ken WOO ; Yeon Soo KIM ; Celine ABUEVA ; Seung Hoon WOO
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2025;18(1):1-13
Photobiomodulation (PBM), a noninvasive phototherapy that utilizes wavelengths between red and near-infrared light, has emerged as a promising approach for controlling inflammation by modulating macrophage polarization. This review investigates the therapeutic potential of PBM in treating ENT-specific inflammatory conditions, such as chronic rhinosinusitis and otitis media, focusing on its effects on macrophage phenotypes and evidence from preclinical studies. By promoting mitochondrial activity, increasing adenosine triphosphate production, and modulating reactive oxygen species, PBM has been shown to shift macrophages from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Studies have demonstrated that PBM enhances tissue repair, reduces inflammatory markers, and promotes wound healing. Moreover, PBM facilitates the polarization of M2 macrophages, a crucial factor in resolving mucosal inflammation in the nasal, pharyngeal, and middle ear cavities, as well as restoring tissue homeostasis. The anti-inflammatory effects of PBM are attributed to its ability to influence several molecular mechanisms involved in inflammation regulation, particularly in ENT organ tissues, where recurrent inflammation can lead to chronic conditions such as otitis media or sinusitis. Furthermore, this review compares PBM to competing methods for reprogramming macrophages and treating inflammation, highlighting its advantages of minimal toxicity, simplicity, and precision in controlling ENT immune responses.
7.Reprogramming Macrophage Phenotypes With Photobiomodulation for Improved Inflammation Control in ENT Organ Tissues
Ken WOO ; Yeon Soo KIM ; Celine ABUEVA ; Seung Hoon WOO
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2025;18(1):1-13
Photobiomodulation (PBM), a noninvasive phototherapy that utilizes wavelengths between red and near-infrared light, has emerged as a promising approach for controlling inflammation by modulating macrophage polarization. This review investigates the therapeutic potential of PBM in treating ENT-specific inflammatory conditions, such as chronic rhinosinusitis and otitis media, focusing on its effects on macrophage phenotypes and evidence from preclinical studies. By promoting mitochondrial activity, increasing adenosine triphosphate production, and modulating reactive oxygen species, PBM has been shown to shift macrophages from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Studies have demonstrated that PBM enhances tissue repair, reduces inflammatory markers, and promotes wound healing. Moreover, PBM facilitates the polarization of M2 macrophages, a crucial factor in resolving mucosal inflammation in the nasal, pharyngeal, and middle ear cavities, as well as restoring tissue homeostasis. The anti-inflammatory effects of PBM are attributed to its ability to influence several molecular mechanisms involved in inflammation regulation, particularly in ENT organ tissues, where recurrent inflammation can lead to chronic conditions such as otitis media or sinusitis. Furthermore, this review compares PBM to competing methods for reprogramming macrophages and treating inflammation, highlighting its advantages of minimal toxicity, simplicity, and precision in controlling ENT immune responses.
8.Reprogramming Macrophage Phenotypes With Photobiomodulation for Improved Inflammation Control in ENT Organ Tissues
Ken WOO ; Yeon Soo KIM ; Celine ABUEVA ; Seung Hoon WOO
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2025;18(1):1-13
Photobiomodulation (PBM), a noninvasive phototherapy that utilizes wavelengths between red and near-infrared light, has emerged as a promising approach for controlling inflammation by modulating macrophage polarization. This review investigates the therapeutic potential of PBM in treating ENT-specific inflammatory conditions, such as chronic rhinosinusitis and otitis media, focusing on its effects on macrophage phenotypes and evidence from preclinical studies. By promoting mitochondrial activity, increasing adenosine triphosphate production, and modulating reactive oxygen species, PBM has been shown to shift macrophages from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Studies have demonstrated that PBM enhances tissue repair, reduces inflammatory markers, and promotes wound healing. Moreover, PBM facilitates the polarization of M2 macrophages, a crucial factor in resolving mucosal inflammation in the nasal, pharyngeal, and middle ear cavities, as well as restoring tissue homeostasis. The anti-inflammatory effects of PBM are attributed to its ability to influence several molecular mechanisms involved in inflammation regulation, particularly in ENT organ tissues, where recurrent inflammation can lead to chronic conditions such as otitis media or sinusitis. Furthermore, this review compares PBM to competing methods for reprogramming macrophages and treating inflammation, highlighting its advantages of minimal toxicity, simplicity, and precision in controlling ENT immune responses.
9.PPARgamma Agonist Beyond Glucose Lowering Effect.
Akira SUGAWARA ; Akira URUNO ; Masataka KUDO ; Ken MATSUDA ; Chul Woo YANG ; Sadayoshi ITO
The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine 2011;26(1):19-24
The nuclear hormone receptor PPARgamma is activated by several agonists, including members of the thiazolidinedione group of insulin sensitizers. Pleiotropic beneficial effects of these agonists, independent of their blood glucose-lowering effects, have recently been demonstrated in the vasculature. PPARgamma agonists have been shown to lower blood pressure in animals and humans, perhaps by suppressing the renin-angiotensin (Ang)-aldosterone system (RAAS), including the inhibition of Ang II type 1 receptor expression, Ang-II-mediated signaling pathways, and Ang-II-induced adrenal aldosterone synthesis/secretion. PPARgamma agonists also inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis in animals and humans, possibly through a pathway involving the suppression of RAAS and the thromboxane A2 system, as well as the protection of endothelial function. Moreover, PPARgamma-agonist-mediated renal protection, especially the reduction of albuminuria, has been observed in diabetic nephropathy, including animal models of the disease, and in non-diabetic renal dysfunction. The renal protective activities may reflect, at least in part, the ability of PPARgamma agonists to lower blood pressure, protect endothelial function, and cause vasodilation of the glomerular efferent arterioles. Additionally, anti-neoplastic effects of PPARgamma agonists have recently been described. Based on the multiple therapeutic actions of PPARgamma agonists, they will no doubt lead to novel approaches in the treatment of lifestyle-related and other diseases.
Animals
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Atherosclerosis/prevention & control
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Humans
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Hypertension/drug therapy
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Hypoglycemic Agents/*pharmacology
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Kidney Diseases/etiology
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PPAR gamma/*agonists
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PPAR-beta/agonists
10.Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension: A Case Report.
Chan Soh PARK ; Hyun Jung CHIN ; Seok Min KIM ; Chang Woo SON ; Sung Ken YU ; Jin Hong CHUNG ; Kwan Ho LEE
Yeungnam University Journal of Medicine 2008;25(1):50-57
Pulmonary hypertension is an increase in blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein or pulmonary capillaries. Depending on the cause, pulmonary hypertension can be a severe disease with markedly decreased exercise tolerance and right-sided heart failure. Pulmonary hypertension can present as one of five different types: arterial, venous, hypoxic, thromboembolic, or miscellaneous. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with severe pulmonary hypertension is a rare disease. A 52-year-old man presented with a complaint of aggravating dyspnea. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure was 61.5 mmHg by Doppler echocardiogram. The patient was prescribed diuretics, digoxin, bronchodilator, sildenafil, bosentan and an oxygen supply. However, he ultimately died of cor pulmonale. Thus, diagnosis and early combination therapy are important.
Arterial Pressure
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Blood Pressure
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Capillaries
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Digoxin
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Diuretics
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Dyspnea
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Exercise Tolerance
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Heart Failure
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Humans
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Hypertension
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Hypertension, Pulmonary
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Middle Aged
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Oxygen
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Piperazines
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Pulmonary Artery
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Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
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Pulmonary Heart Disease
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Pulmonary Veins
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Purines
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Rare Diseases
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Sulfonamides
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Sulfones
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Sildenafil Citrate