Therapeutic mechanisms and applications of 808 nm laser irradiation: from wound healing to neurological recovery - a review

M. Imani
Lasers in Medical Science, 40:526, 2025

The 808-nm wavelength laser has emerged as a promising non-invasive tool with significant therapeutic potential in various medical fields. This review highlights its biological mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory effects, tissue repair, and pain modulation. The laser inhibits the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6)) and increasing interleukin-10 (IL-10), an anti-inflammatory mediator that accelerates healing. The laser also activates the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway to stimulate collagen synthesis and fibroblast activity, enhancing tissue regeneration. Additionally, by promoting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and improves neovascularization and tissue oxygenation as well. The modulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels, increased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathways further support neuroprotection and cellular recovery. Importantly, recent insights suggest the laser's interaction with glial cells particularly astrocytes and microglia plays a critical role in managing neuro-inflammation and improving outcomes in neurological disorders such as hydrocephalus. The ability to influence cerebrospinal fluid regulation and enhance brain barrier permeability positions the 808-nm laser as a potential therapeutic option for improving life quality in affected individuals. Despite its potential, further clinical studies are required to validate and standardize its application across medical protocols.