The use of “low level” light applications, termed photobiomodulation (PBM), as a noninvasive, neuro-restorative therapy has potential to revolutionize repair of the injured nervous system. Experiments on the use of PBM to repair injured spinal cords and peripheral nerves will be discussed, along with the scientific basis for this improvement.
Light applied transcutaneously penetrates to the level of the spinal cord. Transmission spectra revealed that peak transmission through all tissue layers overlying the spinal cord was at 810 nm, with minimal absorption by blood and water. Axonal regeneration and functional recovery in various models of spinal cord injury was supported by 810 nm wavelength light. Genes involved in the immune response, cellular proliferation and growth factor receptors were significantly altered by PBM after spinal cord injury.
Recent data on transcranial light penetration into human cadaver brains will be presented, along with a review of current preclinical and clinical transcranial light applications for brain injury. Peripheral nerve injury results in chronic loss of sensation and motor function. PBM supports statistically significant improvements in nerve regeneration and functional behavior.
These findings will be presented along with a discussion of current misconceptions concerning wavelengths and laser parameters used for PBM of the nervous system.
Published February 19, 2015, Photonics Media, photonics.com
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