Benefits of this emerging technology

In this article, the terms photobiomodulation (PBM), Red Light Therapy (RLT), and Photobiology will be used interchangeably to refer to the same concept.

History of Light Therapy

The history of light therapy can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where the healing properties of sunlight were recognized and utilized. This marked the first recorded application of phototherapy.

UV Light and Skin Disease (1903)

In 1903, Danish physician Nils Finsen was awarded the Nobel Prize for his innovative use of artificial ultraviolet light to treat skin disorders such as lupus vulgaris. He is widely regarded as the pioneer of modern phototherapy.

UV Light and Testosterone (1939)

A clinical study in 1939 demonstrated the capacity of UV light to enhance testosterone levels in men. Dr. Myerson exposed the chest area of male subjects to UV light over five days, resulting in a 120% increase in testosterone by the end of the treatment. After ceasing exposure, testosterone levels reverted to baseline within eight days.

Subsequently, another experiment targeted the male genitalia instead of the chest, achieving a remarkable 200% increase in testosterone levels by the fifth day. Following the cessation of exposure, levels again returned to baseline after eight days.

The 1960s witnessed a significant advancement in science with the advent of laser technology.

The Father of Photobiomodulation (1967)

In 1967, Professor Endre Mester aimed to replicate an American experiment utilizing a laser to destroy cancerous tumors in mice. Unfortunately, the laser available to him in Hungary lacked the necessary power, failing to eliminate the tumors. However, it did stimulate skin tissue, promoting rapid healing of surgical incisions.

This unexpected result intrigued Mester, leading him to explore low-level laser light over the next six years. He confirmed its ability to accelerate skin healing and made several other notable discoveries regarding Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), including its efficacy in promoting hair growth, healing skin ulcers, reducing arthritis pain, and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties—all achieved with laser energies as low as 1 Joule/cm².

NASA's Involvement (1990s)

In the early 1990s, NASA adapted this technology for medical applications in space flight. The ability of photobiomodulation to expedite healing of wounds, burns, and skin ulcers proved essential in counteracting the adverse effects of microgravity on healing processes, helping to prevent minor injuries from escalating into severe issues.

NASA research pinpointed optimal wavelengths for wound healing at 670 and 880 nm, with a dosage of 4–8 J/cm² and a light intensity of 50 mW/cm².

Photobiomodulation Today

Currently, photobiomodulation (PBM) predominantly employs either low-power lasers or Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Clinical research has increasingly favored LEDs due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Comparative studies have shown that LEDs can be just as effective as lasers, although some researchers still advocate for the coherent light produced by lasers.

Research primarily focuses on two light bands: the visible spectrum (400–700 nm) and the infrared spectrum (700–1100 nm). Many studies emphasize wavelengths around 660 nm and 850 nm, although variations exist without straying too far from these figures.

Applications

How It Works & Why It Works

One of the most remarkable aspects of this technology is its broad applicability to various human ailments. The underlying reason is surprisingly simple: RLT primarily stimulates the mitochondria in cells to enhance their specific functions, whether they are brain, nerve, muscle, bone, or skin cells.

Mitochondria, often referred to as the cell's powerhouse, synthesize ATP, the compound that provides energy for cellular functions. When stimulated, mitochondria produce more ATP, thus enhancing the overall function of the cell.

Cells may contain thousands of mitochondria, with the quantity varying by cell type. Consequently, the stimulation of mitochondria leads to improved cellular performance.

How Mitochondria Produce More ATP from Light

Mitochondria contain chromophores, molecules that absorb light photons. A key chromophore identified is cytochrome c oxidase (CCO), located in the mitochondrial membranes. When CCO absorbs light, it triggers an increase in ATP synthesis, supplying energy to the cell.

This summary highlights basic photochemistry, but for a deeper understanding, I recommend the book “Low-Level Light Therapy: Photobiomodulation” by Hamblin, Ferraresi, Huang, Freitas, and Carroll.

Additional biochemical processes associated with RLT include inflammation reduction, protein synthesis, and enhanced blood flow, often facilitated by the production of nitric oxide (NO), a vasodilator that improves circulation.

Why This Information Is Important

While a full understanding of biochemistry isn't necessary to utilize RLT—just as one doesn't need to be a mechanic to drive a car—having some knowledge can be beneficial. Personally, understanding how RLT can enhance cognitive function, assist in fat loss, and promote muscle recovery and strength simultaneously was enlightening. These seemingly disparate benefits connect through the way RLT energizes cellular mitochondria.

You don't have to delve into the biochemistry unless you're interested, but it's important to grasp the concept of the biphasic response, which directly relates to RLT use.

Biphasic Response — Too Much Of A Good Thing

An essential aspect of RLT is the biphasic response, indicating that more light isn't necessarily better and can even be detrimental. This concept is best illustrated through the accompanying chart.

Due to the significance of this aspect, I have authored a separate article discussing it further.

Why Try Photobiomodulation?

For over four decades, researchers have established the safety and non-invasiveness of photobiomodulation. PBM devices are suitable for home use, allowing individuals to receive treatments without needing to visit a healthcare provider. Although many studies involve limited sample sizes, the outcomes are frequently impressive.

• Red Light Therapy for Muscle Recovery
• Red Light Therapy for Bodybuilding
• Red Light Therapy for Cognitive Enhancement
• Red Light Therapy for Fat Loss
• Red Light Therapy Dosage Guide
• Red Light Therapy to Increase Testosterone

More Information on Red Light Therapy and Photobiomodulation

I recently published a book titled “Living Younger Longer Using Red Light Therapy,” available on Amazon. You can find ePub, PDF, and print versions on my website:

https://john-iovine.com/nonfiction/living-younger-longer.html

Disclaimer

The content in this article is intended solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The author, John Iovine, presents his research experiences based on factual observations. While the information is believed to be reliable, the author cannot guarantee its accuracy and acknowledges that sources may change over time.