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Fradkin Y, De Taboada L, Naeser M, Saltmarche A, Snyder W, Steingold E. Transcranial photobiomodulation in children aged 2-6 years: a randomized sham-controlled clinical trial assessing safety, efficacy, and impact on autism spectrum disorder symptoms and brain electrophysiology. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1221193. [PMID: 38737349 PMCID: PMC11086174 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1221193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Small pilot studies have suggested that transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) could help reduce symptoms of neurological conditions, such as depression, traumatic brain injury, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Objective To examine the impact of tPBM on the symptoms of ASD in children aged two to six years. Method We conducted a randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial involving thirty children aged two to six years with a prior diagnosis of ASD. We delivered pulses of near-infrared light (40 Hz, 850 nm) noninvasively to selected brain areas twice a week for eight weeks, using an investigational medical device designed for this purpose (Cognilum™, JelikaLite Corp., New York, United States). We used the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS, 2nd Edition) to assess and compare the ASD symptoms of participants before and after the treatment course. We collected electroencephalogram (EEG) data during each session from those participants who tolerated wearing the EEG cap. Results The difference in the change in CARS scores between the two groups was 7.23 (95% CI 2.357 to 12.107, p = 0.011). Seventeen of the thirty participants completed at least two EEGs and time-dependent trends were detected. In addition, an interaction between Active versus Sham and Scaled Time was observed in delta power (Coefficient = 7.521, 95% CI -0.517 to 15.559, p = 0.07) and theta power (Coefficient = -8.287, 95% CI -17.199 to 0.626, p = 0.07), indicating a potential trend towards a greater reduction in delta power and an increase in theta power over time with treatment in the Active group, compared to the Sham group. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the condition (Treatment vs. Sham) in the power of theta waves (net_theta) (Coefficient = 9.547, 95% CI 0.027 to 19.067, p = 0.049). No moderate or severe side effects or adverse effects were reported or observed during the trial. Conclusion These results indicate that tPBM may be a safe and effective treatment for ASD and should be studied in more depth in larger studies.Clinical trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04660552, identifier NCT04660552.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliy Fradkin
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | | | - Margaret Naeser
- Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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Coelho DRA, Salvi JD, Vieira WF, Cassano P. Inflammation in obsessive-compulsive disorder: A literature review and hypothesis-based potential of transcranial photobiomodulation. J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25317. [PMID: 38459770 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a disabling neuropsychiatric disorder that affects about 2%-3% of the global population. Despite the availability of several treatments, many patients with OCD do not respond adequately, highlighting the need for new therapeutic approaches. Recent studies have associated various inflammatory processes with the pathogenesis of OCD, including alterations in peripheral immune cells, alterations in cytokine levels, and neuroinflammation. These findings suggest that inflammation could be a promising target for intervention. Transcranial photobiomodulation (t-PBM) with near-infrared light is a noninvasive neuromodulation technique that has shown potential for several neuropsychiatric disorders. However, its efficacy in OCD remains to be fully explored. This study aimed to review the literature on inflammation in OCD, detailing associations with T-cell populations, monocytes, NLRP3 inflammasome components, microglial activation, and elevated proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, CRP, IL-1β, and IL-6. We also examined the hypothesis-based potential of t-PBM in targeting these inflammatory pathways of OCD, focusing on mechanisms such as modulation of oxidative stress, regulation of immune cell function, reduction of proinflammatory cytokine levels, deactivation of neurotoxic microglia, and upregulation of BDNF gene expression. Our review suggests that t-PBM could be a promising, noninvasive intervention for OCD, with the potential to modulate underlying inflammatory processes. Future research should focus on randomized clinical trials to assess t-PBM's efficacy and optimal treatment parameters in OCD. Biomarker analyses and neuroimaging studies will be important in understanding the relationship between inflammatory modulation and OCD symptom improvement following t-PBM sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Richer Araujo Coelho
- Division of Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joshua D Salvi
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for OCD and Related Disorders, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Willians Fernando Vieira
- Division of Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paolo Cassano
- Division of Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Ceranoglu TA, Hutt Vater C. Dr. Joseph Biederman's Enduring Legacy: Illuminating the Path to Addressing Autistic Traits in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder With Transcranial Photobiomodulation. J Atten Disord 2024; 28:664-668. [PMID: 38327034 DOI: 10.1177/10870547231222599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the existing literature on transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) treatment effects on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in search for an effective treatment of a symptom cluster identified largely by contributions from late Dr. Biederman who asserted that they frequently present with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). METHOD A survey of two databases, PubMed and PsycINFO, for clinical trials reporting on tPBM treatment in ASD was performed. Identified manuscripts that met eligibility criteria were then reviewed. RESULTS Three original manuscripts reporting findings on a heterogenous group of study methods met the eligibility criteria. Despite the heterogenous nature of study designs, findings from all three studies reported tPBM treatment to be associated with improvements in ASD symptoms. No serious or treatment limiting adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS A nascent body of research suggests further clinical studies investigating efficacy of tPBM in treatment of ASD symptoms should be supported.
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Semyachkina-Glushkovskaya O, Penzel T, Poluektov M, Fedosov I, Tzoy M, Terskov A, Blokhina I, Sidorov V, Kurths J. Phototherapy of Alzheimer's Disease: Photostimulation of Brain Lymphatics during Sleep: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10946. [PMID: 37446135 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The global number of people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) doubles every 5 years. It has been established that unless an effective treatment for AD is found, the incidence of AD will triple by 2060. However, pharmacological therapies for AD have failed to show effectiveness and safety. Therefore, the search for alternative methods for treating AD is an urgent problem in medicine. The lymphatic drainage and removal system of the brain (LDRSB) plays an important role in resistance to the progression of AD. The development of methods for augmentation of the LDRSB functions may contribute to progress in AD therapy. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is considered to be a non-pharmacological and safe approach for AD therapy. Here, we highlight the most recent and relevant studies of PBM for AD. We focus on emerging evidence that indicates the potential benefits of PBM during sleep for modulation of natural activation of the LDRSB at nighttime, providing effective removal of metabolites, including amyloid-β, from the brain, leading to reduced progression of AD. Our review creates a new niche in the therapy of brain diseases during sleep and sheds light on the development of smart sleep technologies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oxana Semyachkina-Glushkovskaya
- Department of Physics, Humboldt University, Newtonstrasse 15, 12489 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
| | - Thomas Penzel
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
- Interdisziplinäres Schlafmedizinisches Zentrum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Mikhail Poluektov
- Department of Nervous Diseases, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya 2, Building 4, 119435 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Fedosov
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
| | - Maria Tzoy
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
| | - Andrey Terskov
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
| | - Inna Blokhina
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
| | - Viktor Sidorov
- Company "Lazma" for Research and Production Enterprise of Laser Medical Equipment, Kuusinena Str. 11, 123308 Moscow, Russia
| | - Jürgen Kurths
- Department of Physics, Humboldt University, Newtonstrasse 15, 12489 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya 82, 410012 Saratov, Russia
- Department of Complexity Science, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegrafenberg A31, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
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Breaux R, Baweja R, Eadeh HM, Shroff DM, Cash AR, Swanson CS, Knehans A, Waxmonsky JG. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological Interventions for Persistent Nonepisodic Irritability. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 62:318-334. [PMID: 35714838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of available pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for irritability among youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), disruptive behavior disorders (DBD), disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), and/or severe mood dysregulation (SMD). METHOD Literature searches were conducted in October 2020, resulting in 564 abstracts being reviewed to identify relevant papers, with 387 articles being reviewed in full. A random effects model was used for the meta-analysis, with subgroup meta-regressions run to assess effects of study design, intervention type, medication class, and clinical population. RESULTS A total of 101 studies were included (80 pharmacological, 13 nonpharmacological, 8 combined). Despite high heterogeneity in effects (I2 = 94.3%), pooled posttreatment effect size for decreasing irritability was large (Hedges' g = 1.62). Large effects were found for pharmacological (g = 1.85) and nonpharmacological (g = 1.11) interventions; moderate effects were found for combined interventions relative to monotherapy interventions (g = 0.69). Antipsychotic medications provided the largest effect for reducing irritability relative to all other medication classes and nonpharmacological interventions. A large effect was found for youth with ASD (g = 1.89), whereas a medium effect was found for youth with ADHD/DMDD/DBD/SMD (g = 0.64). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive review of interventions targeting persistent nonepisodic irritability among youth with various psychiatric disorders. Strong evidence was found for medium-to-large effects across study design, intervention type, and clinical populations, with the largest effects for pharmacological interventions, particularly antipsychotic medications and combined pharmacological interventions, and interventions for youth with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Breaux
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg.
| | - Raman Baweja
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | - Annah R Cash
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg
| | | | - Amy Knehans
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Pan WT, Liu PM, Ma D, Yang JJ. Advances in photobiomodulation for cognitive improvement by near-infrared derived multiple strategies. J Transl Med 2023; 21:135. [PMID: 36814278 PMCID: PMC9945713 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03988-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive function is an important ability of the brain, but cognitive dysfunction can easily develop once the brain is injured in various neuropathological conditions or diseases. Photobiomodulation therapy is a type of noninvasive physical therapy that is gradually emerging in the field of neuroscience. Transcranial photobiomodulation has been commonly used to regulate neural activity in the superficial cortex. To stimulate deeper brain activity, advanced photobiomodulation techniques in conjunction with photosensitive nanoparticles have been developed. This review addresses the mechanisms of photobiomodulation on neurons and neural networks and discusses the advantages, disadvantages and potential applications of photobiomodulation alone or in combination with photosensitive nanoparticles. Photobiomodulation and its associated strategies may provide new breakthrough treatments for cognitive improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-tong Pan
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,grid.207374.50000 0001 2189 3846Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,Henan Province International Joint Laboratory of Pain, Cognition and Emotion, Zhengzhou, 450000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Pan-miao Liu
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,grid.207374.50000 0001 2189 3846Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,Henan Province International Joint Laboratory of Pain, Cognition and Emotion, Zhengzhou, 450000 People’s Republic of China
| | - Daqing Ma
- Division of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine & Intensive Care, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK. .,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, 310052, China.
| | - Jian-jun Yang
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,grid.207374.50000 0001 2189 3846Neuroscience Research Institute, Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,Henan Province International Joint Laboratory of Pain, Cognition and Emotion, Zhengzhou, 450000 People’s Republic of China
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7
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Liebert A, Capon W, Pang V, Vila D, Bicknell B, McLachlan C, Kiat H. Photophysical Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation Therapy as Precision Medicine. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020237. [PMID: 36830774 PMCID: PMC9953702 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite a significant focus on the photochemical and photoelectrical mechanisms underlying photobiomodulation (PBM), its complex functions are yet to be fully elucidated. To date, there has been limited attention to the photophysical aspects of PBM. One effect of photobiomodulation relates to the non-visual phototransduction pathway, which involves mechanotransduction and modulation to cytoskeletal structures, biophotonic signaling, and micro-oscillatory cellular interactions. Herein, we propose a number of mechanisms of PBM that do not depend on cytochrome c oxidase. These include the photophysical aspects of PBM and the interactions with biophotons and mechanotransductive processes. These hypotheses are contingent on the effect of light on ion channels and the cytoskeleton, the production of biophotons, and the properties of light and biological molecules. Specifically, the processes we review are supported by the resonant recognition model (RRM). This previous research demonstrated that protein micro-oscillations act as a signature of their function that can be activated by resonant wavelengths of light. We extend this work by exploring the local oscillatory interactions of proteins and light because they may affect global body circuits and could explain the observed effect of PBM on neuro-cortical electroencephalogram (EEG) oscillations. In particular, since dysrhythmic gamma oscillations are associated with neurodegenerative diseases and pain syndromes, including migraine with aura and fibromyalgia, we suggest that transcranial PBM should target diseases where patients are affected by impaired neural oscillations and aberrant brain wave patterns. This review also highlights examples of disorders potentially treatable with precise wavelengths of light by mimicking protein activity in other tissues, such as the liver, with, for example, Crigler-Najjar syndrome and conditions involving the dysregulation of the cytoskeleton. PBM as a novel therapeutic modality may thus behave as "precision medicine" for the treatment of various neurological diseases and other morbidities. The perspectives presented herein offer a new understanding of the photophysical effects of PBM, which is important when considering the relevance of PBM therapy (PBMt) in clinical applications, including the treatment of diseases and the optimization of health outcomes and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Liebert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Adventist Hospital Group, Wahroonga 2076, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead 2145, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - William Capon
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Vincent Pang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead 2145, Australia
| | - Damien Vila
- Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier-Nîmes, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Brian Bicknell
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead 2145, Australia
| | - Craig McLachlan
- Faculty of Health, Torrens University, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Hosen Kiat
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Torrens University, Adelaide 5000, Australia
- Cardiac Health Institute, Sydney 2121, Australia
- ANU College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra 2600, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park 2109, Australia
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8
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Kim UJ, Hong N, Ahn JC. Photobiomodulation Attenuated Cognitive Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation in a Prenatal Valproic Acid-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416099. [PMID: 36555737 PMCID: PMC9785820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication and interaction disorders, as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors. To date, no effective treatment strategies have been identified. However, photobiomodulation (PBM) is emerging as a promising treatment for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. We used mice exposed to valproic acid (VPA) as a model of ASD and found that pathological behavioral and histological changes that may have been induced by VPA were attenuated by PBM treatment. Pregnant mice that had been exposed to VPA were treated with PBM three times. Thereafter, we evaluated the offspring for developmental disorders, motor function, hyperactivity, repetitive behaviors, and cognitive impairment. PBM attenuated many of the pathological behaviors observed in the VPA-induced ASD mouse model. In addition, pathophysiological analyses confirmed that the increase in activated microglia and astrocytes observed in the VPA-induced ASD mouse model was attenuated by PBM treatment. This suggests that PBM can counteract the behavioral changes caused by neuroinflammation in ASD. Therefore, our data show that PBM has therapeutic potential and may reduce the prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ui-Jin Kim
- Department of Medical Laser, Graduate School, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Namgue Hong
- Medical Laser Research Center, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (N.H.); (J.-C.A.)
| | - Jin-Chul Ahn
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (N.H.); (J.-C.A.)
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9
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Lights on for Autism: Exploring Photobiomodulation as an Effective Therapeutic Option. Neurol Int 2022; 14:884-893. [PMID: 36412693 PMCID: PMC9680350 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint14040071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that starts in childhood and continues into adulthood. The core characteristics include difficulties with social interaction and communication, together with restricted and repetitive behaviours. There are a number of key abnormalities of brain structure and function that trigger these behavioural patterns, including an imbalance of functional connectivity and synaptic transmission, neuronal death, gliosis and inflammation. In addition, autism has been linked to alterations in the gut microbiome. Unfortunately, as it stands, there are few treatment options available for patients. In this mini-review, we consider the effectiveness of a potential new treatment for autism, known as photobiomodulation, the therapeutic use of red to near infrared light on body tissues. This treatment has been shown in a range of pathological conditions-to improve the key changes that characterise autism, including the functional connectivity and survival patterns of neurones, the patterns of gliosis and inflammation and the composition of the microbiome. We highlight the idea that photobiomodulation may form an ideal treatment option for autism, one that is certainly worthy of further investigation.
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10
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Melillo R, Leisman G, Machado C, Machado-Ferrer Y, Chinchilla-Acosta M, Kamgang S, Melillo T, Carmeli E. Retained Primitive Reflexes and Potential for Intervention in Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Front Neurol 2022; 13:922322. [PMID: 35873782 PMCID: PMC9301367 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.922322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We provide evidence to support the contention that many aspects of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are related to interregional brain functional disconnectivity associated with maturational delays in the development of brain networks. We think a delay in brain maturation in some networks may result in an increase in cortical maturation and development in other networks, leading to a developmental asynchrony and an unevenness of functional skills and symptoms. The paper supports the close relationship between retained primitive reflexes and cognitive and motor function in general and in ASD in particular provided to indicate that the inhibition of RPRs can effect positive change in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Melillo
- Movement and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gerry Leisman
- Movement and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Neurology, University of the Medical Sciences of Havana, Havana, Cuba
| | - Calixto Machado
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yanin Machado-Ferrer
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Shanine Kamgang
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ty Melillo
- Northeast College of the Health Sciences, Seneca Falls, New York, NY, United States
| | - Eli Carmeli
- Movement and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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11
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Hamblin MR. Could Photobiomodulation Treat Autism Spectrum Disorder? Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg 2022; 40:367-369. [PMID: 35613405 DOI: 10.1089/photob.2022.0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, South Africa
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12
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Pallanti S, Di Ponzio M, Grassi E, Vannini G, Cauli G. Transcranial Photobiomodulation for the Treatment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Retrospective Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9050755. [PMID: 35626932 PMCID: PMC9139753 DOI: 10.3390/children9050755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face several challenges due to deficits in social function and communication along with restricted patterns of behaviors. Often, they also have difficult-to-manage and disruptive behaviors. At the moment, there are no pharmacological treatments for ASD core features. Recently, there has been a growing interest in non-pharmacological interventions for ASD, such as neuromodulation. In this retrospective study, data are reported and analyzed from 21 patients (13 males, 8 females) with ASD, with an average age of 9.1 (range 5−15), who received six months of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) at home using two protocols (alpha and gamma), which, respectively, modulates the alpha and gamma bands. They were evaluated at baseline, after three and six months of treatment using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), the Home Situation Questionnaire-ASD (HSQ-ASD), the Autism Parenting Stress Index (APSI), the Montefiore Einstein Rigidity Scale−Revised (MERS−R), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the SDAG, to evaluate attention. Findings show that tPBM was associated with a reduction in ASD severity, as shown by a decrease in CARS scores during the intervention (p < 0.001). A relevant reduction in noncompliant behavior and in parental stress have been found. Moreover, a reduction in behavioral and cognitive rigidity was reported as well as an improvement in attentional functions and in sleep quality. Limitations were discussed as well as future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Pallanti
- Neurodevelopment Division, Istituto di Neuroscienze, 50121 Florence, Italy; (M.D.P.); (E.G.); (G.V.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Michele Di Ponzio
- Neurodevelopment Division, Istituto di Neuroscienze, 50121 Florence, Italy; (M.D.P.); (E.G.); (G.V.)
| | - Eleonora Grassi
- Neurodevelopment Division, Istituto di Neuroscienze, 50121 Florence, Italy; (M.D.P.); (E.G.); (G.V.)
| | - Gloria Vannini
- Neurodevelopment Division, Istituto di Neuroscienze, 50121 Florence, Italy; (M.D.P.); (E.G.); (G.V.)
| | - Gilla Cauli
- Asst Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20154 Milan, Italy;
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Zhang WW, Wang XY, Chu YX, Wang YQ. Light-emitting diode phototherapy: pain relief and underlying mechanisms. Lasers Med Sci 2022; 37:2343-2352. [DOI: 10.1007/s10103-022-03540-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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14
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Tsai CM, Chang SF, Chang H. Transcranial photobiomodulation add-on therapy to valproic acid for pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in peripubertal rats. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:81. [PMID: 35313886 PMCID: PMC8935768 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03562-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) prevention is critical for pediatric patients with epilepsy. Immediate intervention before CSE reduce severity. Despite its wide usage as an anticonvulsant, valproic acid (VPA) results in harmful side effects such as dose-dependent hepatotoxicity. Hence, reducing VPA dosage to minimize side effects while maintaining its efficacy is necessary, and transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) add-on therapy could facilitate this. We recently demonstrated for the first time that tPBM at a wavelength of 808 nm attenuated CSE in peripubertal rats. However, the effects of VPA with the add-on therapy of tPBM prior to seizures have not yet been explored. This study investigated whether adding tPBM to VPA exerts synergistic effect for CSE prevention in peripubertal rats. Methods A gallium-aluminum-arsenide laser (wavelength of 808 nm with an exposure duration of 100 s and irradiance of 1.333 W/cm2 at the target) was applied transcranially 30 min after VPA injection in Sprague Dawley rats. All the rats received 90 mg/kg of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). Except for the saline (n = 3), tPBM + saline (n = 3), and PTZ group (n = 6), all the rats received a PTZ injection 30 min after VPA injection. The rats received add-on tPBM with PTZ immediately after tPBM. In the VPA + PTZ group, the rats received low-dose (100 mg/kg, n = 6), medium-dose (200 mg/kg, n = 6), and high-dose (400 mg/kg, n = 7) VPA. In the VPA + tPBM + PTZ group, the rats received low (100 mg/kg, n = 5), medium (200 mg/kg, n = 6), and high (400 mg/kg, n = 3) doses of VPA. Seizures were evaluated according to the revised Racine’s scale in a non-blinded manner. Results Adding tPBM to low-dose VPA reduced the incidence of severe status epilepticus and significantly delayed the latency to stage 2 seizures. However, adding tPBM to high-dose VPA increased the maximum seizure stage, prolonged the duration of stage 4–7 seizures, and shortened the latency to stage 6 seizures. Conclusions Adding tPBM to low-dose VPA exerted a synergistic prevention effect on PTZ-induced seizures, whereas adding tPBM to high-dose VPA offset the attenuation effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Min Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shwu-Fen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsi Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
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15
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Ceranoglu TA, Cassano P, Hoskova B, Green A, Dallenbach N, DiSalvo M, Biederman J, Joshi G. Transcranial Photobiomodulation in Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: Positive Findings from a Proof-of-Concept Study. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg 2022; 40:4-12. [PMID: 34941429 DOI: 10.1089/photob.2020.4986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: Adults with high-functioning-ASD, between 18 and 59 years of age, were enrolled to receive twice a week tPBM for 8 weeks in an open-label single group design. ASD symptom severity was assessed at baseline, midpoint, and end-point, by clinician-, self-, and informant-rated measures. Treatment response was defined as a ≥30% reduction in Social Responsiveness Scale-2nd Edition (SRS-2) total score and ASD Clinical Global Impression-Improvement score ≤2. Any possible adverse events were recorded at each visit. Paired-samples t-test analyses were performed. Results: Eleven participants were enrolled, and 10 participants (9 males; 30.0 ± 11.9 years) completed the study. One participant withdrew consent before baseline. All 10 completers were included in efficacy and safety analyses. Five participants (50%) met responder criteria at end-point. Overall, 8-week tPBM was associated with significant reduction in SRS-2 total scores at end-point (SRS-2: -30.6 ± 23, p < 0.001) particularly in Social Awareness (-3.0 ± 1.9, p < 0.001), Social Communication (-10.3 ± 6, p < 0.001), Social Motivation (-5.0 ± 2.4, p < 0.001), and Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors (-7.4 ± 4.1, p < 0.001). There were statistically significant improvements at end-point in Global Assessment of Functioning scores (+12.8 ± 4.2, p < 0.001) and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire scores (+6.0 ± 7.9, p = 0.02). Three participants experienced transient, mild side effects (insomnia, headache, and warmth at treatment application site). No adverse events required changes in tPBM protocol. Adherence rate was 98%. Conclusions: tPBM is a safe and feasible treatment approach that has the potential to treat core features of ASD. Further research is necessary and warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03724552.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolga Atilla Ceranoglu
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paolo Cassano
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Barbora Hoskova
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Allison Green
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nina Dallenbach
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maura DiSalvo
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph Biederman
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gagan Joshi
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Clinical and Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Yang M, Yang Z, Wang P, Sun Z. Current application and future directions of photobiomodulation in central nervous diseases. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1177-1185. [PMID: 33269767 PMCID: PMC8224127 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.300486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Photobiomodulation using light in the red or near-infrared region is an innovative treatment strategy for a wide range of neurological and psychological conditions. Photobiomodulation can promote neurogenesis and elicit anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative responses. Its therapeutic effects have been demonstrated in studies on neurological diseases, peripheral nerve injuries, pain relief and wound healing. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the application of photobiomodulation in patients with central nervous system diseases in February 2019. The NCBI PubMed database, EMBASE database, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect database were searched. We reviewed 95 papers and analyzed. Photobiomodulation has wide applicability in the treatment of stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, major depressive disorder, and other diseases. Our analysis provides preliminary evidence that PBM is an effective therapeutic tool for the treatment of central nervous system diseases. However, additional studies with adequate sample size are needed to optimize treatment parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muyue Yang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Core Facility of West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Pu Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhihui Sun
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, The People’s Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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Mannu P, Maiello M, Spera V, Cassano P. Transcranial Photobiomodulation for Down Syndrome. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg 2019; 37:579-580. [DOI: 10.1089/photob.2019.4675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Maiello
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatric Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenza Spera
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatric Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Cassano
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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