From molecular mechanisms to clinical applications: A comprehensive review of photobiomodulation in cancer treatment

Abstract

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that regulates biological processes using primarily low-power lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to achieve therapeutic effects. Its application has expanded significantly, particularly in the field of cancer therapy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of PBM, elucidating its underlying mechanisms of action and its potential applications in cancer therapy. It highlights the benefits of PBM in reducing side effects of cancer treatments such as acute oral mucositis, radiation dermatitis, lymphedema, neuropathic pain, and radiation enteropathy. Furthermore, the ability of PBM to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, and discusses safety concerns of PBM in clinical applications, presenting existing research that emphasizes its significant potential in cancer therapy was summarized. PBM therapy may offer promising new clinical options for managing cancer and mitigating the side effects associated with conventional cancer therapies.