-Photobiomodulation, or low-level light therapy, can improve the functioning of thyroid cells damaged by the ionizing radiation used in cancer treatment. A new study in mice, which examines the mechanism of photobiomodulation on thyroid function, is published in the peer-reviewed journal Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. Click here to read the article.
A light-emitting diode was used at various strengths to delivery light energy to irradiated human thyroid cells in vitro and to mice in an in vivo study. Cell survival and proliferation were evaluated and cell cycle markers were measured, including p53 and retinoblastoma (Rb). The researchers found that photobiomodulation restored cell proliferation by regulating Rb and p53 in X-ray irradiated thyroid follicular tissues. It also led to the recovery of other cell function markers in vivo.
"In conclusion, administering photobiomodulation using a low-power LED on irradiated thyroid cells and tissues stimulated cell proliferation by changing p53 and Rb expression, thus improving thyroid function," state the authors. "Based on these findings, photobiomodulation may be effective in preventing and promoting recovery in patients with suspected radiation-induced hypothyroidism."
"This is another example of how photobiomodulation can be used to mitigate the side effects of cancer therapy. It could easily be translated to the clinic," says Michael R. Hamblin, PhD, Distinguished Visiting Professor, University of Johannesburg.
About the Journal
Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery is an authoritative peer-reviewed journal dedicated to cutting-edge techniques and research in phototherapy, low level laser therapy (LLLT), and laser medicine and surgery. Published monthly, the Journal is under the leadership of Editor-in-Chief Michael R Hamblin, PhD and Co-Editor-in-Chief Heidi Abrahamse, PhD. The Journal covers a range of basic and clinical research and procedures in medicine, surgery, and dentistry, focusing on safety issues, new instrumentation, optical diagnostics, and activities related to the understanding and applications of biophotonics in medicine. Tables of content and a sample issue may be viewed on the Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery website.
About the Publisher
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers is known for establishing authoritative peer-reviewed journals in many promising areas of science, medicine, and law. A complete list of the firm's more than 100 journals, books, and newsmagazines is available on the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers website.
