Lasers, stem cells, and COPD

J Transl Med. 2010 Feb 16:8:16. doi: 10.1186/1479-5876-8-16.

Abstract

The medical use of low level laser (LLL) irradiation has been occurring for decades, primarily in the area of tissue healing and inflammatory conditions. Despite little mechanistic knowledge, the concept of a non-invasive, non-thermal intervention that has the potential to modulate regenerative processes is worthy of attention when searching for novel methods of augmenting stem cell-based therapies. Here we discuss the use of LLL irradiation as a "photoceutical" for enhancing production of stem cell growth/chemoattractant factors, stimulation of angiogenesis, and directly augmenting proliferation of stem cells. The combination of LLL together with allogeneic and autologous stem cells, as well as post-mobilization directing of stem cells will be discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / radiation effects
  • Cell Proliferation / radiation effects
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism
  • Low-Level Light Therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic / radiation effects
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / therapy*
  • Stem Cell Transplantation
  • Stem Cells* / physiology
  • Stem Cells* / radiation effects

Substances

  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins