Exploring Photobiomodulation as a Potential Novel Intervention for Developmental Stuttering: A Review and Hypothesis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neuromodulation
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Developmental stuttering (DS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder impacting speech fluency in ~5% of children.
• Current interventions for DS have variable long-term efficacy, and its pathophysiology is not fully understood.
• DS is linked to reduced cerebral blood flow, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired neural connectivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of transcranial photobiomodulation (t-PBM) for developmental stuttering (DS).
• To review t-PBM's mechanisms of action in relation to the neurophysiological deficits observed in DS.
• To explore t-PBM as a potential intervention for DS.

Main Methods:

• This study is a scoping review.
• It summarizes existing evidence on t-PBM mechanisms.
• It correlates t-PBM's effects with known neurophysiological deficits in DS.

Main Results:

• t-PBM may enhance cerebral blood flow by stimulating ATP production and vasodilation.
• t-PBM can promote neuroplasticity and modulate astrocyte function.
• The technique may also reduce anxiety associated with DS.

Conclusions:

• t-PBM shows theoretical promise as a low-risk intervention for DS.
• Clinical trials are necessary to confirm its therapeutic utility and efficacy.
• Optimizing treatment parameters and exploring combination therapies are future research directions.