Unraveling the role of photobiomodulation in tumor biology and therapy
- Author:
Ken WOO
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review article
- From: Medical Lasers 2025;14(1):1-8
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Photobiomodulation (PBM) is emerging as a non-invasive modality that modulates cellular metabolism and signaling through the application of red and near-infrared light. While extensively studied for its regenerative applications, such as wound healing and skin rejuvenation, PBM’s impact on cancer cells and its potential role as an adjunct in cancer treatment have drawn increasing attention. This review critically examines the molecular mechanisms by which PBM influences cancer cell behavior, including its effects on mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species modulation, and gene expression, and discusses the dualistic nature of PBM in oncology. Preclinical studies, particularly those utilizing glioblastoma cell lines, reveal both anti-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects while emerging data support the promising yet complex use of PBM in combination with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Finally, the challenges in optimizing the light parameters for safe application in oncologic settings are addressed, along with future research directions to harness PBM’s full therapeutic potential while avoiding inadvertent tumor stimulation.
