Dose-response relationship of photobiomodulation therapy and oxidative stress markers in healing dynamics of diabetic neuropathic ulcers in Wistar rats

PURPOSE: Diabetic foot ulcers are reported to be the most expensive complications of diabetes, with high morbidity and mortality rates. If the necessary care is not provided for the wound to heal, the individual may end up amputating the affected feet. Photobiomodulation therapy is a promising non-pharmacological treatment option for wound healing. The objective of the present study is to establish a dose-response relationship between photobiomodulation therapy and oxidative stress markers in the healing dynamics of diabetic neuropathic ulcers in Wistar rats. METHODOLOGY: Diabetic neuropathy was induced in 126 Albino Wistar rats. An excisional wound of an area of 2cm(2) was made on the neuropathy-induced leg. Photobiomodulation therapy of dosages 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 15 J/cm(2) of wavelengths 655 and 808 nm was irradiated. The control group animals were kept un-irradiated. The outcome measures were assessed during wound healing’s inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases. RESULTS: In the experimental group, animals treated with photobiomodulation therapy at doses of 4, 6, and 8 J/cm(2) showed better wound healing dynamics. Photobiomodulation therapy modulated the reactive oxygen species and antioxidant levels, thereby improving the oxidative status of the wound. CONCLUSION: Photobiomodulation therapy of dosages 4, 6, and 8 J/cm(2) is effective and is a promising adjuvant modality in treating diabetic neuropathic ulcers. There was a strong dose-response relationship in the experimental groups treated with 4, 6 and 8 J/ cm(2). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-022-01157-2.