Unleashing light's healing power: an overview of photobiomodulation for Alzheimer's treatment

Future Sci OA. 2024 May 24;10(1):FSO922. doi: 10.2144/fsoa-2023-0155. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Aim: Photobiomodulation involves the use of low-level light therapy or near-infrared light therapy found to be useful in the treatment of a wide range of neurological diseases. Objective: The aim is to review the mechanism and clinical applications of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in managing Alzheimer's disease. Methods: To ensure that the consensus statement accurately reflects both the experts' viewpoint and the most recent developments in the field, the expert opinions were recorded and thoroughly reviewed. Results: PBMT elicits reduction of beta-amyloid plaque, restoration of mitochondrial function, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties with a stimulation in ATP synthesis. Conclusion: The PBMT could be helpful in patients non-responsive to traditional pharmacological therapy providing significant aid in the management of Alzheimer's disease when introduced into the medical field.

Keywords: AD; ATP biosynthesis; PBMT; beta-amyloid plaque; mitochondrial dysfunction.

Plain language summary

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable progressive neurodegenerative disease clinically manifested with a decline in cognitive function. To ensure that the consensus statement accurately reflects both the experts' viewpoint and the most recent developments in the field, the expert opinions were recorded and thoroughly reviewed. PBMT elicits various mechanisms such as reduction of beta-amyloid plaque, Restoration of mitochondrial function and maintenance the homeostasis, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties with a stimulation in ATP synthesis. The PBMT could be helpful in patients who are non-responsive to conventional pharmacological therapy. This therapy might provide significant aid in the management of AD when introduced into the medical field. However, it requires various intensive research to be conducted for further conclusion.

Publication types

  • Review