Inducing stem cell differentiation using low intensity laser irradiation: a possible novel therapeutic intervention

Abstract

Developments in adult stem cell (ASC) potentiation have contributed to excitement in the field of stem cell-based therapy. The use of ASCs not only increases therapeutic treatment possibilities but successful use of multipotent cells for gene therapy has been demonstrated in animal models [1]. Concurrent ability of stem cells (SCs) to either contribute to disease development, as identified in cancer stem cells (CSCs), or to replace diseased tissue by induced differentiation using selected growth factors, has highlighted the intricate molecular and cellular mechanisms. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) are capable of self-renewal and respond well to induced differentiation [2]. Auto-immunity and transplant rejection may become minor limitations when selective induction of immunological nonresponsiveness to specific antigens or tissues become possible using autologous cell sources [3]. CSCs initiate tumorogenesis, can generate differentiated daughter cells or undergo self-renewal while thought to instigate tumour regeneration post-treatment. Therapy targeting CSCs has failed to provide feasible alternatives to conventional cancer treatment. Low intensity laser irradiation (LILI), induce a biostimulatory response in several tissue types in addition to a dose-response effect to the detriment of cellular degeneration. Potential of LILI to induce CSC differentiation and subsequent cytotoxic therapy to prevent tumour regeneration is explored in this mini-review.

Photobiomodulation of breast and cervical cancer stem cells using low-intensity laser irradiation

“…33 Biphasic dose and wavelength-related cellular response to LILI treatment LILI, also known as photobiomodulation, is a non-thermal and non-toxic phototherapy that uses coherent monochromatic low-intensity light, usually corresponding to the visible red (400-720 nm) and the near-infrared (NIR; 700-1000 nm) range of the light spectrum to induce photobiological processes at the cellular level. 34 The clinical use of LILI has so far shown no side effects in patients, making it a promising therapeutic approach in a wide range of clinical applications. 8 In the past decades, the medical application of LILI has been focused on its non-invasive biostimulatory effect.…”

Laser‐Induced Differentiation of Human Adipose‐Derived Stem Cells to Temporomandibular Joint Disc Cells

“…Moreover, a research study reported that intra‐articular injection of ADSCs and laser irradiation prevented knee joint degeneration with induced osteoarthritis [14]. Application of photobiomodulation on the bone marrow to stimulate patient's stem cells and to induce regeneration of damaged tissue is one of the most recent approaches [15,16]. Another study used a 660 nm diode laser on damaged skeletal muscle in rats, reported positive effects and an increase in the muscle regeneration process itself [17].…”

The Effect of Low Intensity Laser Irradiation on Breast Cancer Cells and Breast Cancer Stem Cells

“…Generally, the hypothesis supporting the possible curative effect of laser treatment has also been questioned. However, the beneficial effects of LILI using specific light parameters in the treatment of cancer and other medical conditions have been revealed [17]. The use of LILI alone with the aim to eradicate cancer cells has still not yield convincing results.…”

“…These photobiological responses to LILI don't induce any significate elevation in temperature and highly depends on factors such as the intensity and wavelength of light applied, and the type of cell. Hence, LILI can be defined as a non-thermal photo-biomodulation technique using optical waves that usually correspond to the visible red or near-infrared (NIR) light and low fluencies to induce photobiological process at the cellular level [17,18].…”