Chronic Effects of Photobiomodulation With an LED Vest on Functional Capacity, Inflammatory Markers, and Muscle Perfusion in Children With Asthma

Overview

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that results in tissue remodeling, airflow limitation, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. This study aims to evaluate the long-term effects of photobiomodulation using an LED vest in the management of pediatric asthma. It is a randomized clinical trial involving children aged 6 to 17 years diagnosed with mild to moderate asthma, divided into two groups: an intervention group (using a vest with active LEDs) and a control group (using the vest turned off, simulating the intervention without light emission). The methodology includes clinical and functional assessments such as spirometry, the Asthma Control Test (ACT), the GINA questionnaire, and the Incremental Step Test (IST), which measures exercise tolerance. Photobiomodulation through LEDs promotes cellular biostimulation without thermal effects, modulating inflammatory processes and optimizing tissue regeneration. It is expected that the LED vest will contribute to improving pulmonary function, enhancing quality of life, and complementing conventional treatments. This project aims to advance the clinical application of photobiomodulation as an accessible and effective therapeutic alternative for pediatric asthma.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, persistent inflammation, airflow limitation, and structural airway remodeling. Pediatric asthma remains a major public health concern due to its impact on lung development, exercise tolerance, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Despite advances in pharmacological therapies, many children continue to experience symptoms, exacerbations, and functional limitations, highlighting the need for complementary therapeutic strategies. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has emerged as a promising non-invasive intervention capable of modulating biological processes through light energy absorption by cellular photoreceptors. By stimulating mitochondrial activity and enhancing ATP production, PBMT may reduce inflammatory responses, improve tissue repair, and optimize microcirculatory function without inducing thermal damage. Experimental studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects associated with reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. This randomized clinical trial aims to investigate the chronic effects of an LED vest-based photobiomodulation intervention on functional capacity, inflammatory markers, and pulmonary outcomes in children aged 6-17 years diagnosed with mild to moderate asthma. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving active LED treatment or a control group receiving sham treatment through an inactive vest. Clinical and functional assessments will include spirometry, Asthma Control Test (ACT), GINA assessment, and the Incremental Step Test (IST) to evaluate exercise tolerance. Additional physiological parameters may be analyzed to investigate underlying mechanisms associated with treatment response. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of innovative, accessible, and clinically applicable therapeutic strategies for pediatric asthma management.