A Narrative Review on Photobiomodulation-Guided Immunomodulation: Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute a major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and are frequently skewed toward an M2-like phenotype that promotes immune suppression, angiogenesis, and tumor progression.

Reprogramming these macrophages into an M1-like, pro-inflammatory state has emerged as a promising strategy to reinvigorate antitumor immunity and enhance the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive therapeutic modality utilizing low-intensity red to near-infrared light (600-1100 nm), has shown growing potential in immunomodulation through its effects on mitochondrial bioenergetics, redox signaling, and transcriptional regulation.

This review presents a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms by which PBM influences macrophage polarization, including activation of cytochrome c oxidase, transient increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and downstream activation of nuclear factor κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1, and hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha pathways.

Pre-clinical evidence demonstrates that PBM can effectively reprogram M2-polarized TAMs toward an M1 phenotype, characterized by increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and interleukin (IL)-12 and reduced levels of CD206 and IL-10. When combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors, PBM further enhances CD8⁺ T cell infiltration and tumor clearance. Nanotechnology-based delivery platforms-such as TAM-targeted upconversion nanoparticles and ROS-sensitive polymeric carriers-have enabled precise, localized PBM activation within tumors, overcoming the limitations of light penetration and systemic exposure.

Collectively, PBM offers a spatiotemporally controlled, drug-free approach to modulate tumor immunity by reeducating TAMs and reshaping the TME. Its integration with existing immunotherapies and nanomedicine holds significant promise for next-generation precision oncology strategies.