Presentation summary (Symposium)

Photobiomodulation (or Low-Level Laser Therapy, LLLT) is the process by which chromophores selectively absorb low-energy wavelengths to induce cellular signaling phenomena that trigger major biological synthesis and thus activate the cell regeneration process. Photobiomodulation has an effect on the cellular metabolism of our tissues comparable to photosynthesis in plant cells.

 Light energy is transferred to the various organs of our cells to stimulate metabolic functions, which produce several remarkable clinical effects, such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing effects.

The mitochondria perform a vital function: cellular respiration. It is here that glucose completes its metabolism by encountering oxygen supplied by red blood cells. This encounter allows the cell to produce ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, a molecule that constitutes the cellular energy reservoir. This glucose metabolism allows the movement of protons and electrons, producing water and ATP.

To enable electrical currents to flow, the cell uses a chain of molecules, including Cytochrome C Oxidase, a protein containing iron and copper, hypersensitive to red and infrared light: as soon as a photon touches it, it orders the production of ATP.

 The light therefore produces an immediate effect: activating the protein and delivering energy to the cell. While regional effects using wide-scanning devices have been studied for a long time, recent techniques allow for specific focusing on acupuncture points similar to laser or electrotherapy, which are very promising and have a perfect place in the acupuncturist’s therapeutic arsenal.