Neuroprotective effects of 670nm (red) light on the human brain
Context
Non-invasive application of red/infrared light (photobiomodulation) can protect cells from ageing and improve neurological and psychological conditions such as brain injury, stroke, dementia, depression and general age-related decline. However, widespread clinical use of the treatment is limited because of an incomplete understanding of how it works.
The research
Based on animal models, the leading theory suggests red/infrared light improves function of mitochondria ('powerhouses' of the cell), increasing energy (ATP) production. Our project uses computational modelling of light penetration and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure biomarkers of mitochondrial function noninvasively in the human brain and quantify the effects of photobiomodulation.
Contact us
York Neuroimaging Centre
Co-directors Aidan Horner and Beth Jefferies, Department of Psychology
reception@ynic.york.ac.uk
+44 (0)1904 325940
York Neuroimaging Centre,
The Biocentre,
York Science Park,
Heslington,
York
YO10 5NY
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Featured researcher
Heidi Baseler
Dr Baseler's research focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms specialised for processing central and peripheral vision, and how these mechanisms respond to sensory loss (visual or auditory).
Featured researcher
Aneurin Kennerley
Dr Kennerley's research concerns the application and development of novel multi-model biomedical imaging systems towards answering important and clinically relevant questions.
Contact us
York Neuroimaging Centre
Co-directors Aidan Horner and Beth Jefferies, Department of Psychology
reception@ynic.york.ac.uk
+44 (0)1904 325940
York Neuroimaging Centre,
The Biocentre,
York Science Park,
Heslington,
York
YO10 5NY
Twitter