LongevityReduction of physical signs of ageing

With increasing age, blood circulation, metabolism, regenerative capacity, flexibility of connective tissue and vessels, and cell division, for example, continuously decline. Red light and near-infrared light reduce these signs of ageing, in particular by activating the mitochondria to produce ATP, improving blood circulation and metabolism, and optimising cell renewal.

Activation of mitochondria for ATP production

Almost all signs of ageing are linked to the declining activity of mitochondria. These ‘cell powerhouses’ produce the molecule ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and are essential for maintaining all vital functions.

ATP not only acts at the site of application, but can also be distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream.

Improvement of blood circulation and metabolism

With age, tissue loses flexibility and elasticity, which has a negative effect on metabolic performance. Cell membranes become less permeable and the permeability of the vascular system decreases. As a result, nutrients are no longer transported as effectively and waste products are not removed as efficiently, reducing the supply of energy and oxygen. Light with suitable wavelengths improves blood circulation and metabolism.

Influence on telomeres and optimisation of cell division

A series of studies has shown that light therapy has a positive effect on telomerase concentration. Telomerase is an enzyme/catalyst that is capable of lengthening telomeres (= ‘protective caps’ at the ends of chromosomes), thereby preventing damage to genetic information during frequent cell division.

Sources:

  1. Colombo, E. et al. Experimental and Clinical Applications of Red and Near-Infrared Photobiomodulation on Endothelial Dysfunction: A Review. Biomed 9, 274 (2021)

  2. Trajano, L. A. da S. N. et al. Low-power infrared laser modulates telomere length in heart tissue from an
    experimental model of acute lung injury. Photochem Photobio S 20, 653–661 (2021).

  3. Arabadjiev, B., Pankov, R., Vassileva, I., Petrov, L. S. & Buchvarov, I. Photobiomodulation with 590 nm Wavelength Delays the Telomere Shortening and Replicative Senescence of Human Dermal Fibroblasts In Vitro. Photobiomodulation Photomed Laser Surg 38, 656–660 (2020).

  4. Raafat, B. B. M., Aziz, S. W., Hanafy, N. A. L. and 4 A. M. & Hanafy, A. M. human telomerase reverse transcriptase (htert) gene expression in rheumatoid arthritis patients (htert) after usage of low level laser therapy. Australian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences 10, 1–8 (2011)

  5. Otberg, N. et al. Walter-filtered infrared-A (wIRA) can act as a penetration enhancer for topically applied substances. Ger. Méd. Sci. : GMS e-J. 6, Doc08 (2008).