Advances in Nano-Phototherapy for Targeted Fat Reduction: From Mechanisms to Clinical Translation in Obesity

Obesity is a global public health concern, and traditional surgical interventions such as liposuction, although effective, carry risks of trauma and complications. Non-invasive phototherapies, including photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and photothermal therapy (PTT), have emerged as promising alternatives.

This narrative review synthesizes current literature on phototherapy-based fat reduction. A PubMed search was conducted using the terms ("photosensitive material" OR "photodynamic therapy" OR "photothermal" OR "photobiomodulation") AND ("lipolysis" OR "fat reduction" OR "body contour"). Of 105 studies meeting inclusion criteria, 80 were selected for detailed analysis, focusing on PBMT, PDT, and PTT in non-invasive fat reduction.

PDT induces adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling via ROS generated by photosensitizers; PTT applies near-infrared light to heat adipose tissue, promoting fat cell death and enhancing local metabolic activity; PBMT stimulates mitochondrial activity, accelerating lipolysis and metabolic processes. Some studies indicate that the use of nanomaterials may modestly enhance targeting and therapeutic efficacy.

Non-invasive phototherapy shows great potential in obesity management, and the integration of nanomaterials may further enhance targeting and therapeutic efficacy, enabling safer and more efficient fat reduction. Future studies should optimize phototherapy parameters and explore the synergistic effects of nanomaterials and personalized intervention strategies.