Photobiomodulation (PBM)

"Photobiomodulation" refers to a **biological process** in which non-ionizing light sources—such as lasers or LEDs in the visible and near-infrared spectrum—are used to stimulate cellular activity. The primary molecular target for photobiomodulation is the **cytochrome c complex** within mitochondria. When photons are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, this stimulates the electron transport chain, leading to increased production of ATP, modulation of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species levels, and downstream effects such as reduced inflammation, enhanced cell survival, improved wound healing, and pain reduction. Photobiomodulation is not itself a molecule or receptor but rather describes how specific wavelengths of light modulate biological pathways at the cellular level through endogenous chromophores like cytochrome c oxidase. It is widely studied for its therapeutic potential in pain management, tissue repair/regeneration, modulation of inflammatory responses, and other clinical applications. Note: "Photobiomodulation pathway" does **not refer to an individual molecule or receptor**, but instead denotes an entire set of interconnected biochemical events triggered by exposure to certain wavelengths of light. The canonical molecular target most often cited within this pathway is cytochrome c oxidase. If you need structured information about an actual druggable target involved in photobiomodulation—for example "Cytochrome c oxidase"—please specify that protein directly.

Other names

PhotobiomodulationPBMLow level laser therapy (LLLT)Cold laser therapyLaser therapy

PBM is not a drug target; it describes the effect of light on cellular processes