Laser Photobiomodulation as a Potential Multi-Target Anticancer Therapy-Review

Abstract

Background: Anticancer drugs directed at single specific molecular targets tend to induce transitory responses, followed by relapses. Laser photobiomodulation may offer the possibility of targeting multiple hallmarks of cancer by using fit-for-purpose electromagnetic (EM) energy aiming to restore homeostasis-homeokinesis. Methods/Principal Findings: A literature search of English-language articles in five databases (Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Cochrane, Google Scholar, Scirus) was conducted using search terms relating to cancer (neoplasm, advanced cancer, palliative) in combination with photobiomodulation and/or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the period from January 1990 to January 2013. Controlled clinical trials with at least 1 year of follow up and minimum compliance of 90% were included. Clinical studies evaluating lymphedema, mucositis or pain were also included to illustrate post-LLLT responses to adverse effects of chemo-radiotherapy. In vitro and in vivo studies were considered as preliminary data for clinical trials. Retrieved articles suggest that photobiomodulation can modulate anti-tumor effects and reduce the adverse effects of chemo-radiotherapy. Results are discussed giving particular attention to two mechanistic proposals with potential anticancer applications, photo-infrared pulsed biomodulation (PIPBM) and water oscillator (WO). Conclusions/Significance: Translational research with laser photobiomodulation as a multi-target (multi-hallmark) therapy in cancer and other complex diseases appears warranted.

Water-light interaction: A novel pathway for multi hallmark therapy in cancer

“…As we will see, burned rat tissue monitored by proton nuclear magnetic resonance transverse relaxation times and correlation times show significantly enhanced water structuring post IPLD treatment. [20][21] In addition, the micro densitometry of T2 weighted tumor heterogeneities from the phase I trial in patients with advanced neoplasias 16 and an algorithm for tumor characterization also show significantly increased water structuring 18 , consistent with an effect over the exclusion zone associated with histologically-confirmed selective photo-induced tumor cell death. 15 Using a 90MHz nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, we found that the IPLD induced significant short-term molecular changes in burned rat soft tissue.…”

“…Along the way, we have proposed detailed mechanisms that explain one basic premise: that external electromagnetic energy supplementation can enhance and even substitute for endogenous ATP production to power and modulate physiologically reparative mechanisms which can help reestablish homeostasis / homeokinesis, even when physiologic metabolic pathways have been compromised. [17][18] Cellular and molecular basis for water-mediated, long-range, energy supplementation aimed at inducing and modulating physiologically reparative processes, including apoptosis, have been described as part of a mechanism called Photo Infrared Pulsed Biomodulation. 5 The role of water as an oscillator in near infrared laser photobiomodulation has also been documented, adding to a more coherent description of the central effects of NIR light over redox centers and key transmembrane enzymes, such as CcO.…”

“…22 The above fits well with the behavior of the corresponding curves obtained from an algorithm for tumor characterization by analysis of transversal relaxation rates, which show an increase in structured water associated to biopolymers and macromolecules. 18 The figures show the evolution over two months of two recurrent tumor masses from the same patient before and after IPLD treatment. The top-and bottom-row graphs correspond to supra-orbital and left-cheek metastases.…”

“…On each graph, the left curves represent short T2 times, which correspond to the vertical section of the T2 exponential curve, whereas the right curve corresponds to long T2 times from the horizontal section of the same curve. 18 (Figure 5)…”

“Quantum Leap” in Photobiomodulation Therapy Ushers in a New Generation of Light-Based Treatments for Cancer and Other Complex Diseases: Perspective and Mini-Review

“…Here, we describe a paradigm shift or ''quantum leap'' in the understanding and use of light and its interaction with water and other relevant photoacceptors to control biologic function in medicine through photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. We propose that progress will lead to the imminent inception of PBM therapy as a mainstream treatment for multiple complex diseases, including solid tumors, as well as neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) of the eye and central nervous system (CNS) [6][7][8][9][10] (Fig. 1).…”