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Systemic Effects of Vascular Photobiomodulation on Early Macrophage Recruitment During Skeletal Muscle Repair

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Muscle injuries involve a complex inflammatory response in which macrophages are essential for proper tissue repair. Dysregulation of this process can impair regeneration. This study investigated the effects of vascular photobiomodulation (VPBM), a non‐invasive therapy applied via the caudal vein/artery, on macrophage dynamics in acute skeletal muscle injury. Wistar rats were divided into Control, Injury, Pre‐VPBM+Injury, and Injury+Post‐VPBM groups. VPBM (780 nm, 40 mW, 3.2 J) was applied preventively or therapeutically. Animals were euthanized on days 1, 2, 5, and 7 post‐injury for CD68 + and CD206 + immunostaining. CD68 + cells peaked on day 1 in the Pre‐VPBM+Injury group, while the Injury group maintained higher levels at day 7. CD206 + cells were elevated early in both VPBM groups, especially Pre‐VPBM. On day 7, CD206 + remained higher in the Injury group, indicating delayed resolution. In summary, the study demonstrates that preventive VPBM application accelerates macrophage recruitment and promotes a pro‐regenerative inflammatory response.

Source: Journal of Biophotonics

DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202500368