1064 Effect of photobiomodulation on the vascular endothelial glycocalyx: A systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies

tudy Overview

  • Description: This systematic review examines how Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy affects the vascular endothelial glycocalyx (eGC)—a delicate, protective layer lining the interior of blood vessels.
  • Source: PubMed

Summary

  • Background: The eGC acts as a "non-stick" protective coating for blood vessels, regulating permeability, preventing blood clots, and modulating inflammation. Damage to this layer is a hallmark of conditions like diabetes, sepsis, and heart disease. This review evaluates PBM's ability to shield or restore this barrier.
  • Mechanisms of Action: PBM interacts with cellular chromophores to trigger biological responses that benefit the eGC:Inhibiting Shedding: It reduces the activity of enzymes that break down glycocalyx components (like hyaluronic acid).Antioxidant Support: It lowers oxidative stress, which is a major driver of glycocalyx degradation.Synthesis Promotion: It may stimulate endothelial cells to produce new glycocalyx molecules.
  • Inhibiting Shedding: It reduces the activity of enzymes that break down glycocalyx components (like hyaluronic acid).
  • Antioxidant Support: It lowers oxidative stress, which is a major driver of glycocalyx degradation.
  • Synthesis Promotion: It may stimulate endothelial cells to produce new glycocalyx molecules.
  • Key Findings:Protective Effects: The majority of reviewed studies indicate that PBM effectively mitigates glycocalyx loss caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury, inflammation, or high glucose levels.Microcirculation Improvement: By preserving the eGC, PBM improves microvascular blood flow and prevents excessive leukocyte adhesion (lowering the inflammatory response).
  • Protective Effects: The majority of reviewed studies indicate that PBM effectively mitigates glycocalyx loss caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury, inflammation, or high glucose levels.
  • Microcirculation Improvement: By preserving the eGC, PBM improves microvascular blood flow and prevents excessive leukocyte adhesion (lowering the inflammatory response).
  • Conclusion: PBM therapy shows significant potential as a non-invasive tool for vascular endothelial protection. Preserving the integrity of the glycocalyx may be a primary mechanism by which PBM aids in treating cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases.