What is Photobiomodulation (PBM) for dry AMD?

Photobiomodulation is a relatively new treatment recently directed at dry age-related macular changes. It consists of nine cycles of light therapy applied to the eye over three to five weeks. Initial studies have shown very promising results at a significant improvement in visual acuity in around 60% of patients and also less development of what is known as geographic atrophy or wearing away of the macular area. The light therapy works by stimulating the mitochondria, in particular a protein known as cytochrome C oxidase. When stimulated by the light this is thought to enhance energy production, decrease inflammation and improve the turnover of cells at the back of the eye, hopefully slowing age-related macular degeneration changes.