Treatment with near-infrared radiation promotes apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of human mortality worldwide. Radiation and chemotherapy are commonly used for cancer treatment; however, the combination of these therapies and surgery do not completely eradicate cancer cells. Near‑infrared radiation (NIR) is a low‑energy form of radiation that exerts multiple effects on mammalian cells. Previous studies have reported that NIR induces DNA double‑strand breaks and apoptosis of cancer cells. In the present study, a 915‑nm laser was used to examine the effects of NIR on pancreatic cancer cells. Irradiation of pancreatic cancer cells using a 915‑nm laser significantly induced caspase‑3 activation and apoptosis. In addition, the combination of gemcitabine treatment and a 915‑nm laser synergistically increased the number of apoptotic cells. The results of the present study indicate the use of infrared irradiation and chemotherapy may be a possible therapy for the treatment of cancer.