Results of groundbreaking study could jumpstart further analysis of the beneficial effects of photobiomodulation on the canine skin microbiome.
Photobiomodulation (PBM), formerly known as low-level laser therapy, has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach in veterinary medicine. While its efficacy for various conditions is being increasingly recognized, its influence on the skin microbiome, a crucial factor in health and disease, remains relatively unexplored. In a groundbreaking study, researchers investigated the effects of a high-power, dual-wavelength, near-infrared laser source, specifically the Multiwavelength Locked Laser System (MLS), on the skin microbiome of atopic dogs, shedding light on a novel aspect of PBM therapy.
Study Protocols 20 Atopic Dogs Involved
The study, conducted on 20 adult-client-owned atopic dogs, aimed to assess the impact of MLS laser therapy on skin microbiome composition and abundance. Each dog received MLS laser treatment on one half of their abdominal regions while the contralateral side served as a control. Skin microbiome samples were collected before and after treatment, and subjected to next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based analysis of ITS and 16S rRNA.
Findings Show PBM Could Modulate Skin Microbiome
The findings revealed intriguing insights into the potential role of PBM in modulating the skin microbiome. While overall microbiome composition and diversity remained unaffected, a notable decrease in the relative abundance of specific bacterial species, particularly Staphylococcus, was observed on the treated side of some atopic dogs. Staphylococcus is a major skin pathogenic strain associated with various dermatological conditions, including atopic dermatitis, commonly encountered in dogs.
Remarkably, this study marks the first of its kind to explore the effects of MLS laser therapy on the skin microbiome of atopic dogs. The use of MLS, administered with specific parameters, demonstrated a potential to influence the abundance of pathogenic bacterial species, offering a glimpse into the therapeutic use of PBM in managing canine skin disorders.
Seminary Results
Despite the preliminary nature of the study and the need for further research in larger populations, these findings pave the way for future investigations into the beneficial effects of PBM on canine skin health. As our understanding of the interaction between PBM and the skin microbiome deepens, veterinarians can harness this knowledge to refine treatment protocols and enhance patient outcomes.
The study underscores the importance of exploring novel therapeutic modalities, such as MLS laser therapy, in veterinary dermatology. By elucidating the complex relationship between PBM and the skin microbiome, veterinarians can expand their armament for managing dermatological conditions in dogs.
