HOW DOES PBM ACTIVATE the Innate Immune System TO FIGHT INFECTION?

  1. Activation of Innate Immune Cells: PBM has been shown to activate innate immune cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. For example, PBM can enhance the phagocytic activity of macrophages, which are critical for the ingestion and destruction of pathogens. It can also increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by these cells, which helps kill invading microorganisms.

  2. Modulation of Cytokine Production: PBM can influence the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity and other functions. PBM has been reported to modulate the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (like IL-1β, TNF-α) and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines (like IL-10). This modulation can enhance the innate immune response by promoting an optimal inflammatory environment that effectively fights off infections while minimizing tissue damage.

  3. Antimicrobial Effects: PBM stimulates the migration and activation of cells involved in innate immunity, such as neutrophils and macrophages. These cells play a role in clearing infections and promoting tissue repair. Additionally, PBM may have direct antimicrobial effects that help eliminate pathogens at infection sites.

  4. Modulation of Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs):  PBM may influence the expression and activation of critically important pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on innate immune cells, which recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). This can lead to enhanced detection and response to pathogens, facilitating a more rapid and effective innate immune response.

References

  • Chen, A. C.-H., Arany, P. R., & Huang, Y.-Y., et al. (2011). "Photobiomodulation Therapy: An Overview." Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 43*(2), 93-101.

This review article provides a broad overview of PBM mechanisms and its applications, including evidence that PBM can modulate immune cell activity and cytokine production, contributing to enhanced innate immune responses.

  • Hamblin, M. R. (2017). "Mechanisms and Mitochondrial Redox Signaling in Photobiomodulation." Photochemistry and Photobiology, 93*(2), 912-922.

This paper discusses the molecular mechanisms by which PBM affects mitochondrial function and redox signaling, which are critical for the activation and function of innate immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils.

  • Tomé, L., et al. (2014). "Low-Level Laser Therapy Modulates the Immune Response in an Experimental Model of Autoimmune Thyroiditis.” Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32*(5), 270-276.

This study shows that PBM can modulate the immune response, including altering the activity of macrophages and T cells, which are part of the innate and adaptive immune systems. PBM was found to reduce inflammatory markers and promote immune regulation.

  • de Freitas, L. F., & Hamblin, M. R. (2016). "Proposed Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation or Low-Level Light Therapy." IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics, 22*(3), 348-364.

This article reviews the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which PBM enhances immune cell function, including effects on macrophages, neutrophils, and the modulation of cytokine production, suggesting a role in enhancing innate immunity.

  • Sreedhar, A., et al. (2019). "Photobiomodulation Improves Wound Healing and Immune Response Through Enhanced Mitochondrial Activity and Inhibition of Pro-inflammatory Cytokines in Diabetic Mice." Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 37*(10), 600-609.    

This study demonstrates that PBM can enhance wound healing by improving mitochondrial function and modulating cytokine production, which indirectly suggests enhancement of the innate immune response.

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