Wearable photobiomodulation halts thyroid cancer growth by leveraging thyroid photosensitivity

Abstract

With papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) rates rising significantly, concerns about conventional treatments like thyroidectomy and radiotherapy highlight the need for non‐invasive options. Our study explores photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), which uses specific light wavelengths to evoke cellular responses in PTC treatment. Our research utilized a custom‐designed optical system to investigate PBMT, finding that blue light at a wavelength of 465 nm can safely and effectively inhibit the proliferation of the TPC‐1 PTC cell line by inducing cell cycle arrest. Additionally, we developed a wirelessly powered wearable PBMT device, which is equipped with an advanced light delivery system that ensures precise and consistent dosage. This device designed for optimal patient comfort, effectively suppressed tumor growth in mouse models without adverse effects. PBMT indicates thyroid tissue's light responsiveness as a non‐visual organ. Our study's innovative approach integrates the disciplines of oncology, biophysics, and medical device technology, thereby advancing the treatment paradigms for PTC. This interdisciplinary bridge not only highlights our groundbreaking findings but also paves the way for future research in cancer therapy and photomedicine.