Photobiomodulation Combined With Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulates the Polarization of Microglia

Abstract

Neuroinflammation plays a key role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, with microglia regulating this process through pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Studies have shown that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) modulate neuroinflammation by secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive therapy, has demonstrated significant potential in alleviating neuroinflammation. This study examines the combined effects of PBM and hUCMSCs in an in vitro microglial inflammation model and an LPS-induced mouse model. The results show that PBM-pretreated hUCMSCs promoted M2 polarization and improved cognitive function in mice by downregulating the Notch signaling pathway, suggesting a promising new approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases.