Red light therapy could slash blood clot risk, new study finds
Research indicates that exposure to red light may reduce the risk of blood clots. These conclusions were drawn after a series of studies on mice and patient data analysis.
The latest research published in the "Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis" suggests that exposure to red light can decrease the risk of blood clots. Scientists from the University of Pittsburgh, including Dr Elizabeth Andraska and Dr Matthew Neal, conducted experiments on humans and mice to investigate this connection.
As part of the research, mice were exposed to 12 hours of red, blue, or white light, followed by 12 hours of darkness in a 72-hour cycle. The results showed that mice exposed to red light had almost five times fewer clots than those exposed to blue or white light. Activity levels, sleep patterns, eating habits, weight, and body temperature remained unchanged in all groups.
Scientists also analyzed data from over 10,000 patients after cataract surgery. Patients receiving blue light-filtering lenses had a lower risk of blood clots than those with conventional lenses. This finding is particularly significant for cancer patients, who have a much higher risk of clots.
The light we’re exposed to can change our biological processes and change our health. Our findings could lead to a relatively inexpensive therapy that would benefit millions of people, conveyed the lead author of the publication, Dr Elizabeth Andraska.
Mechanisms of action
The research team observed that red light is associated with less inflammation and immune system activation. Mice exposed to red light had fewer neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which can lead to clot formation. Additionally, increased fatty acid production reduced platelet activation, which is crucial in clotting.
In preparation for clinical trials, scientists are developing red light goggles to control the amount of light participants are exposed to. The goal is to determine who may benefit most from this phototherapy. This innovative research may lead to developing new, more effective therapies.
Phototherapy, including red light, is used in dermatology and medicine, helping treat skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. This light supports the treatment of seasonal depression and accelerates healing processes.
