Ageing retinal function is improved by near infrared light (670 nm) that is associated with corrected mitochondrial decline

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2017
Source:Neurobiology of Aging
Author(s): Chrishne Sivapathasuntharam, Sobha Sivaprasad, Christopher Hogg, Glen Jeffery
Ageing is associated with cellular decline and reduced function, partly mediated by mitochondrial compromise. However, aged mitochondrial function is corrected with near infrared light (670 nm) that improves their membrane potentials and adenosine triphosphate production (ATP) and also reduces age related inflammation. We ask if 670 nm light can also improve declining retinal function. Electroretinograms (ERG) were measured in 2, 7 and 12 month old C57BL/6 mice. Significant age related declines were measured in the photoreceptor generated a-wave and the post-receptoral b-wave. 7 and 12 month old mice were exposed to 670 nm for 15 minutes daily over 1 month. These showed significant improved retinal function in both waves of approximately 25%, but did not reach levels found in 2 month old animals. Our data suggest, 670 nm light can significantly improve aged retinal function, perhaps by providing additional ATP for photoreceptor ion pumps or reduced aged inflammation. This may have implications for the treatment of retinal ageing and age related retinal disease, such as macular degeneration.



http://ift.tt/2j4xlvh