LIPUS as a potential strategy for anti-inflammation and repair: A review of the mechanisms

Int J Med Sci. 2026 Feb 18;23(3):1144-1160. doi: 10.7150/ijms.124996. eCollection 2026.

Abstract

Hundreds of millions of people worldwide endure continuous suffering and significant economic burdens due to inflammatory diseases. Various acute and chronic inflammatory diseases and the natural aging of the human body are common causes of organ damage. Therefore, how to reasonably regulate inflammation, tissue repair and regeneration after organ damage has been of great concern, especially the pathological repair caused by inflammation will lead to the destruction of the original structure and function of tissues and organs. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a promising non-invasive physical therapy that can produce different biological effects on organs, tissues and cells. Certain clinical trials have demonstrated the outstanding capacity of LIPUS in anti-inflammation and repair. Many in vivo and in vitro basic studies have also reported the molecular effect mechanisms by which LIPUS exerts capacity of anti-inflammation and repair. This review focuses on the molecular mechanism of LIPUS anti-inflammation and repair and emphasizes the crucial role of LIPUS in various diseases. In addition, we compile clinical trials to provide readers with a more thorough understanding of the current potential of LIPUS in inflammation control and organ function restoration.

Keywords: inflammation; low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS); molecular mechanism; repair; signaling pathway.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Inflammation* / immunology
  • Inflammation* / pathology
  • Inflammation* / therapy
  • Ultrasonic Therapy* / methods
  • Ultrasonic Waves*
  • Wound Healing