Photobiomodulation (PBM)
The therapeutic use of light to stimulate the mitochondria
Definition
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is the use of light at specific wavelengths (630–850 nm, red and near-infrared) to stimulate biological processes in tissues. The central mechanism is the absorption of photons by cytochrome c oxidase, the terminal enzyme of the electron transport chain in the mitochondria, which increases ATP production, reduces oxidative stress, and activates regenerative cellular signalling cascades.
Detailed explanation
The correct term is photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level light therapy (LLLT). The commercial term 'Red Light Therapy' is more popular but less precise, as effective therapy also includes near-infrared (NIR, 810–850 nm), which penetrates 5–10 cm into tissues.
Tiina Karu (Institute of Laser Physics, Moscow) established the cytochrome c oxidase mechanism in the 1980s. It is the primary photoreceptor of PBM: it absorbs photons at 630–680 nm and 810–830 nm, increasing the activity of the mitochondrial respiratory chain.
Documented effects: +20–30% ATP production, reduced mitochondrial ROS, activation of transcription factors (NF-κB at low doses, which paradoxically is anti-inflammatory), collagen synthesis (+200% in fibroblasts), and neurogenesis in the prefrontal cortex with transcranial NIR.
For systemic effects, an irradiance of >50 mW/cm² is needed — basic home devices frequently fail to reach this threshold.
Scientific sources
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