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Rationale for 1068 nm Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) as a Novel, Non-Invasive Treatment for COVID-19 and Other
Lydia C Kitchen1, Marvin Berman2, James Halper2
1Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.
Abstract:
Researchers from across the world are seeking to develop effective treatments for the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, which arose as a major public health issue in 2019, and was declared a pandemic in early 2020. The pro-inflammatory cytokine storm, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple-organ failure, neurological problems, and thrombosis have all been linked to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) fatalities. The purpose of this review is to explore the rationale for using photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) of the particular wavelength 1068 nm as a therapy for COVID-19, investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved. Our findings illustrate the efficacy of PBMT 1068 nm for cytoprotection, nitric oxide (NO) release, inflammation changes, improved blood flow, and the regulation of heat shock proteins (Hsp70). We propose, therefore, that PBMT 1068 is a potentially effective and innovative approach for avoiding severe and critical illness in COVID-19 patients, although further clinical evidence is required.
Insights
Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) using 1068 nm light shows promise for treating COVID-19. This therapy may reduce severe illness by improving cellular function and reducing inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Biomedical engineering
- Photomedicine
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, presents significant public health challenges.
- Severe COVID-19 is associated with detrimental outcomes including cytokine storm, ARDS, organ failure, neurological issues, and thrombosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of 1068 nm photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) as a treatment for COVID-19.
- To investigate the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of PBMT in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on PBMT at 1068 nm wavelength.
- Analysis of cellular and molecular effects relevant to COVID-19 pathophysiology.
Main Results:
- PBMT at 1068 nm demonstrates efficacy in cytoprotection and nitric oxide (NO) release.
- The therapy influences inflammation, enhances blood flow, and regulates heat shock proteins (Hsp70).
Conclusions:
- 1068 nm PBMT is a potential innovative therapy to mitigate severe and critical illness in COVID-19 patients.
- Further clinical validation is necessary to confirm the efficacy and safety of PBMT for COVID-19 treatment.
