The post Types of Brain Stimulation Technology first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Types of Brain Stimulation Technology appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The sports medicine community recognizes that concussions from repetitive blows to the head are major public health concerns. To address this issue, Vielight is dedicating resources to seek for a solution using non-invasive transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) modality. We try to be a part of the solution by investing in quality research and development of tPBM devices as potential treatment options. We work with research labs such as Dr Margaret Naeser’s at the Boston University School of Medicine in association with the Boston VA. Several universities employ Vielight devices in their independent research.

One such research center, headed by Dr. David Tate at the University of Utah Department of Neurology, studied concussion using the Vielight RX Gamma as a treatment modality. They presented the results of their study at the recent 10th Annual Symposium of the Sports Neuropsychology Society in Dallas, Texas. Through this independent study, over a period of eight weeks, they studied 49 male and female former athletes with histories of concussion and/or repetitive subconcussive events. All participants had concussive symptoms caused by repeated blows to the head.

The university-led study used the Vielight Neuro RX Gamma to alleviate common symptoms of concussion.

The research team reported significant differences in their pre- and post-treatment experiences. When the RX-Gamma was used, there were improvements in symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress, adjustment, sleep quality, reaction time, and bilateral grip strength. The RX Gamma is a clinical trial version of the Vielight Neuro Gamma tPBM device. Both are designed for home use. A summary of the findings can be accessed here: https://www.vielight. com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/TPBMTreatment-Effects-in-Former-Athleteswith-Repetitive-Head-Hits-Liebel-04-22. pdf

Commenting on this study, Vielight’s CEO, Dr. Lew Lim, remarked, “The University of Utah’s study supports the positive effects that photobiomodulation (PBM) has on post-concussion symptoms. We are grateful that this university chose the Vielight Neuro RX Gamma to test our assumption that it could help with these circumstances. The encouraging results from this study give hope to people suffering from brain injury that healing is possible, when PBM is applied to the brain with the RX Gamma. Vielight’s only role in this independent study was to supply the devices.”

Watch the video here:

Vielight-Sponsored Study Discovers New Understanding in PBM Mechanisms

As part of the effort to develop more effective PBM devices, Vielight continues to invest in understanding fundamental cellular mechanisms related to PBM. In another study, Vielight collaborated with Dr. Jack Tuszynski’s lab at the University of Alberta. The aim of this study was to better understand how photons (light) delivered to the brain via PBM behave and participate in cellular mechanisms and how the cells receive, process, and transmit signals within themselves and their environment.

Although the efficacy of PBM has been reported over the years, its biochemical mechanisms are still poorly understood. For example, the effects of PBM on living cells and the role of microtubules in neuronal signaling are largely unknown.

Several important novel discoveries were made in our collaborative study with Dr. Jack Tuszynski’s lab. Firstly, living cells were exposed to light from a Vielight 810 Infrared LED in an in vitro experiment. The results showed that the cells responded with an increase in electrical current flow and resistance in the microtubules. This may suggest that PBM controls the toxic actions of excitatory neurotransmitters with inhibitory capabilities by keeping them in check.

In the second set of experiments, the research team studied how microtubules within a cell respond to low-intensity PBM. The microtubules were observed to disassemble widely when they were exposed to low-intensity near-infrared (NIR) light. This discovery suggests that low-intensity NIR PBM causes the mitochondria (the cells that create energy for all cells in a body) to be more active. It suggests that low-intensity NIR PBM causes mitochondrial activity to increase and demonstrates the efficacy of low-intensity PBM.

In the final set of experiments, the incubating solution for the tissues was changed slightly. It produced effects that were opposite to that observed in the earlier experiment when microtubules were observed to reassemble. This experiment shows that PBM produces different outcomes when the solutions are changed, reflecting dynamic tissue properties in living organisms.

In summary, the experimental results at the University of Alberta show that mechanisms of PBM are even more complex than expected. There is more work to be done to fully understand the mechanisms and how their systems can be controlled. Vielight has plans for more research in this area, which may lead to personalized PBM parameters in the future. Our work continues! This paper can be accessed at: https:// www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/ fmedt.2022.871196/full.

Vielight Plans for More Online Public Education

PBM is increasingly recognized for its potential to improve health and well-being. This opens the field to future research in understanding the complex and intriguing processes which our bodies undergo to heal themselves when given help from PBM. We receive increasing requests for education, particularly in response to the introduction of our sophisticated Neuro Pro device. Attendees of our first webinar on the potential of the Neuro Pro on March 31, 2022 expressed their appreciation. The webinar can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiaVM68PQj0&. We plan to organize more teaching webinars on PBM, particularly regarding how it can help one’s mental health. In the meantime, due to increasing demands on our staff resources, we are likely to scale back our presence in conferences. Please, continue to follow us for further updates.

We welcome Dr. Mahroo Karimpoor

The latest addition to our research team is Dr. Mahroo Karimpoor, PhD, as a Research Scientist in Photobiomodulation and Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering. Mahroo is also an expert meditator and will be involved in the areas of meditation and mindfulness. Her last engagement was in tissue engineering and related disciplines at University College, London, UK.

Recent Educational Media

These educational videos and podcast would be of interest to those interested in Vielight and PBM technology:
• Penijean Gracefire and Sanjay Manchanda – Neuro Pro Photobiomodulation – Discovering the Possibilities Webinar. March 31, 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiaVM68PQj0
• Lew Lim. Cognitive Enhance with Light Therapy. NuroFlex Podcast. March 8, 2022: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xYC0B41rU0mWj0W31kmAy
• Lew Lim. Photobiomodulation – The Energy-based Path to Higher Consciousness and Wellness. Immersive Wellness Summit 2021, Quantum University. October 9, 2021: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=IkuevUXLR8k
• Lew Lim. A Pivotal Clinical Trial Evaluating a Home-used Photobiomodulation Device in the Treatment of COVID-19 Respiratory Symptoms. PBM 2021, October 1-3, 2021: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j-3h1NrKSs
• Lew Lim. Quantum Elements in Brain Photobiomodulation: new discoveries and new theories. PBM 2021, October 1-3, 2021: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2l1aepfcMo

The post Vielight Bi-Annual Update first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Vielight Bi-Annual Update appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

1. Ein wachsendes Problem für ältere Menschen – altersbedingter kognitiver Abbau
2. Verschiedene Faktoren der Gehirnalterung und des altersbedingten kognitiven Verfalls
3. Photobiomodulation des Gehirns (PBM) und Mitochondrienfunktion
4. PBM im Gehirn und metabolische Effekte
5. PBM im Gehirn und entzündungshemmende Wirkungen
6. PBM im Gehirn führt zu einer Verringerung der neuronalen Exzitotoxizität
7. PBM im Gehirn erhöht die zerebrale Vaskularität und Sauerstoffversorgung
8. Veröffentlichte Forschung – PBM im Gehirn bei älteren Menschen

Ein wachsendes Problem für ältere Menschen ist der altersbedingte kognitive Abbau.

Aufgrund des medizinisch-technischen Fortschritts ist die ältere Bevölkerung das am schnellsten wachsende Segment der Weltbevölkerung. Folglich sind die Nebenwirkungen des natürlichen altersbedingten kognitiven Verfalls – wie verlangsamtes Denken, Gedächtnisverlust und geringe geistige Energie – aufgrund der wachsenden Zahl älterer Menschen und der negativen qualitativen Auswirkungen auf ihre Lebensqualität ein immer häufiger auftretendes Problem.

Source: United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2019). World Population Prospects 2019.

Andererseits haben die Fortschritte in der Hirnstimulationsforschung in Verbindung mit technologischen Innovationen die Neurotechnologie für Langlebigkeit (oder Anti-Aging) zu einem vielversprechenden Vorschlag für das 21.

Es stellt sich die Frage: Wie kann die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns als Biohacking-Tool für Langlebigkeit eingesetzt werden, um die negativen Auswirkungen der Gehirnalterung teilweise zu mildern, indem bestimmte physiologische Prozesse verstärkt werden?

In diesem Artikel werden wir uns auf veröffentlichte Forschungsstudien beziehen, um zu untersuchen, wie die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns für Langlebigkeit und Anti-Aging eingesetzt werden könnte, indem die neuronale mitochondriale Funktion und die allgemeine ganzheitliche Gehirnleistung verbessert werden.

Bitte beachten Sie, dass nichts Bekanntes die genetische Alterung und ihre negativen Auswirkungen rückgängig machen kann, aber der Lebensstil und technologische Interventionen haben das Potenzial, einige der negativen Auswirkungen des Alterns zu verringern oder abzuschwächen.

Verschiedene Faktoren der Gehirnalterung und des altersbedingten kognitiven Abbaus

Die Alterung des Gehirns ist ein natürlicher biologischer Prozess, der zu einem Rückgang der physiologischen Funktionen des Gehirns führt. Mehrere Faktoren tragen zu diesem Phänomen bei.

Einer der bemerkenswerten Faktoren der Hirnalterung ist ein allmählicher Rückgang der Mitochondrienfunktion in den Neuronen. Dies führt zu einem Rückgang der kognitiven Funktionen und einer suboptimalen Gehirnleistung, da der Energiestoffwechsel der Neuronen in den Mitochondrien abnimmt.

Darüber hinaus führt eine Verringerung der Hirndurchblutung und der Sauerstoffversorgung des Gehirns aufgrund eines Verlusts der Hirnvaskularität zu einem Rückgang der kognitiven Funktion[19].

Das alternde Gehirn ist auch durch eine zunehmende Neuroinflammation gekennzeichnet.[17] Wissenschaftler haben Neuroinflammation mit kognitivem Abbau und einem höheren Risiko für altersbedingte kognitive Beeinträchtigungen in Verbindung gebracht.[18]

Was sind Mitochondrien und Neuronen?

• Mitochondrien sind die Batterien der Zelle. Diese membrangebundenen Zellorganellen (Mitochondrium, Singular) erzeugen den Großteil der chemischen Energie, die für die biochemischen Reaktionen der Zelle benötigt wird. Die von den Mitochondrien erzeugte chemische Energie wird in einem kleinen Molekül namens Adenosintriphosphat (ATP) gespeichert.
• Neuronen sind Informationsübermittler. Neuronen, manchmal auch Nervenzellen genannt, machen etwa 10 Prozent des Gehirns aus; der Rest besteht aus Gliazellen und Astrozyten, die die Neuronen unterstützen und ernähren. Sie nutzen elektrische Impulse und chemische Signale, um Informationen zwischen verschiedenen Bereichen des Gehirns sowie zwischen dem Gehirn und dem übrigen Nervensystem zu übermitteln.

Konzentration auf neuronale Mitochondrien und den Alterungsprozess

Neuronale Mitochondrien spielen eine Schlüsselrolle bei der Regulierung des Alterungsprozesses des Gehirns. Wenn ihre Funktion nachlässt, wird die Produktion von Adenosintriphosphat (ATP) reduziert, was zu einer Verringerung des neuronalen Stoffwechsels führt. Darüber hinaus führt ein Rückgang der Mitochondrienfunktion zu einer verminderten Aktivierung von Signalwegen und Transkriptionsfaktoren, die die Expression verschiedener Proteine modulieren[1].

Hinweis: Transkriptionsfaktoren regulieren die Transkription von Genen – den Prozess des Kopierens in RNA während der Proteinsynthese (kurze Information: mindestens 10.000 verschiedene Proteine machen Sie zu dem, was Sie sind und halten Sie in diesem Zustand). Proteine sind die Bausteine dessen, was Sie sind.

Photobiomodulation des Gehirns und Mitochondrienfunktion

Die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns birgt das Potenzial, die Funktion der Mitochondrien zu verbessern und so die negativen Auswirkungen des Alterns teilweise zu mildern.

Der Mechanismus der Photobiomodulation (PBM) beruht auf der Fähigkeit der Zellen, Photonen des roten bis nahen Infrarotlichts (620-1100 nm) durch den Photoakzeptor der Mitochondrien, die Cytochrom-c-Oxidase (CCO), zu absorbieren[2].

Anmerkung: CCO ist der vierte Enzymkomplex der mitochondrialen Atmungskette und katalysiert die Reaktion, bei der Sauerstoff zu Wasser reduziert wird, was mit der Produktion von Stoffwechselenergie in den Zellen verbunden ist.

Figure 1: Activation of mitochondria cytochrome c oxidase through photobiomodulation

Die mitochondrialen Biomechanismen der Photobiomodulation

CCO-Aufregulierung

Die Absorption von roten bis NIR-Photonen durch die Mitochondrien CCO löst eine Reihe von zellulären und physiologischen Effekten im Gehirn aus, die auch als CCO-Hochregulierung bekannt sind.

Figure 2: The cascade effects of photobiomodulation

Die Hochregulierung von CCO führt zu:

• Ein geringer Anstieg reaktiver Sauerstoffspezies (ROS), die mitochondriale Signalwege aktivieren, die mit der Neuroprotektion verbunden sind. [3]
• Ein Anstieg von Stickstoffmonoxid (NO), das die Vasodilatation und den zerebralen Blutfluss stimuliert [4].
• Eine Erhöhung der ATP-Produktion [5].

Zusammengenommen lösen diese Effekte die Aktivierung von Signalwegen und Transkriptionsfaktoren aus, die die langfristige Expression verschiedener Proteine und Stoffwechselwege im Gehirn modulieren[6]. Darüber hinaus wurden durch PBM bei älteren Menschen auch elektrophysiologische Effekte auf das menschliche Gehirn nachgewiesen[7, 8].

Metabolische Auswirkungen und Sauerstoffversorgung des Gehirns

Die metabolischen Wirkungen der PBM bei älteren Menschen erhöhen nachweislich den zerebralen Blutfluss (CBF) aufgrund der gesteigerten CCO-Aktivität, was zu einer verbesserten Sauerstoffversorgung des Gehirns führt. Die Photobiomodulation des präfrontalen Kortex konnte die Alpha-, Beta- und Gamma-Leistung des EEG im Ruhezustand erhöhen und eine effizientere präfrontale fMRI-Reaktion bewirken, was die kognitive Verarbeitung bei älteren Menschen erleichtert. [8] Darüber hinaus hat sich gezeigt, dass die Photobiomodulation des Default Mode Network (DMN) die zerebrale Durchblutung aufgrund einer erhöhten Mitochondrienaktivität verbessert. [9]

PBM im Gehirn und entzündungshemmende Wirkung

Zusätzlich zu den oben genannten Erkenntnissen könnte die PBM aufgrund ihrer entzündungshemmenden Wirkung eine vielversprechende Strategie zur Verbesserung alternder Gehirne sein. [10, 11]

PBM im Gehirn führt zu einer Verringerung der neuronalen Exzitotoxizität

Im Jahr 2022 veröffentlichten Forscher der University of Alberta eine vielschichtige Studie, in der sie die Art und Weise untersuchten, wie lebende Zellen, zelluläre Strukturen und Komponenten wie Mikrotubuli und Tubulin auf Nahinfrarot-Photobiomodulation (NIR PBM) unter Verwendung des Vielight Neuro Alpha reagieren.

Ihre Studie zeigte, dass die PBM ein Gleichgewicht zwischen Erregungsstimulation und -hemmung herstellt, was darauf hindeutet, dass die PBM die Exzitotoxizität verringern kann, was für die Erhaltung eines gesunden Gehirns von Bedeutung ist. Diese Studie zeigte auch, dass die PBM mit niedriger Intensität das mitochondriale Potenzial hochreguliert und die physiologischen Gehirnfunktionen verbessert, die aufgrund von Traumata oder Neurodegeneration beeinträchtigt sind. [14]

PBM im Gehirn erhöht die zerebrale Vaskularität und Sauerstoffversorgung

Der Alterungsprozess geht mit Veränderungen der Gewebestruktur einher, die häufig zu einem Funktionsverlust führen. Die Blutgefäße des Gehirns bilden dabei keine Ausnahme. Mit zunehmendem Alter nimmt die Durchblutung des Gehirns durch den Verlust der zerebralen Gefäße ab, was zu einem kognitiven Verfall führt, wenn die Neuronen nicht mehr ausreichend mit Sauerstoff versorgt werden können.[21] Die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns erhöht nachweislich die zerebrale Durchblutung aufgrund der Vasodilatation, die nach der Freisetzung von Stickstoffmonoxid auftritt.[20]

Figure 3: The beneficial effects of photobiomodulation

Zusammenfassung

Diese Ergebnisse sind vielversprechend, denn mit zunehmendem Alter nimmt die Mitochondrienfunktion ab, die Hirndurchblutung und die Sauerstoffversorgung nehmen ab[12] , Entzündungen nehmen zu und die Vaskularität des Gehirns nimmt ab.

Die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns hat jedoch das Potenzial, die Mitochondrienfunktion, die Hirndurchblutung und die Vaskularität des Gehirns teilweise zu verbessern und möglicherweise auch Entzündungen zu verringern.

Veröffentlichte Forschung – PBM des Gehirns bei älteren Menschen

Im Jahr 2017 fanden Forscher der Abteilung für Psychologie und des Instituts für Neurowissenschaften der University of Texas in Austin heraus, dass die Photobiomodulation des Gehirns die Alpha-, Beta- und Gamma-Leistung des EEG im Ruhezustand erhöht, eine effizientere fMRT-Aktivität fördert und die kognitive Verarbeitung von Verhaltensweisen bei Erwachsenen mittleren Alters und älteren Menschen mit dem Risiko eines kognitiven Verfalls erleichtert. Es wurden keine unerwünschten Wirkungen berichtet.

Diese Ergebnisse unterstützen das Potenzial der Photobiomodulation des Gehirns zur Verbesserung der neurokognitiven Funktionen und zur Bekämpfung des altersbedingten und durch Gefäßkrankheiten verursachten kognitiven Verfalls [13].

Im Jahr 2019 führte Dr. Chao vom Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases, San Francisco VA Medical Center, eine Studie an Patienten im Alter von 80 Jahren durch, bei denen Demenz diagnostiziert wurde. Die NIR-PBM-Behandlungen wurden von einem Studienpartner zu Hause dreimal pro Woche mit dem Vielight Neuro Gamma-Gerät durchgeführt. Nach 12 Wochen kam es in der PBM-Gruppe zu Verbesserungen bei den ADAS-cog- und NPI-Scores, zu einer erhöhten zerebralen Durchblutung und zu einer verbesserten Konnektivität zwischen dem posterioren cingulären Kortex und den lateralen parietalen Knoten innerhalb des Default-Mode-Netzwerks. [15]

Im Jahr 2021 entdeckten Forscher der School of Medical Sciences der Universität Sydney in einer Pilotstudie mit 12 Teilnehmern, dass Messungen der Mobilität, der Kognition, des dynamischen Gleichgewichts und der Feinmotorik durch eine PBM-Behandlung über 12 Wochen und bis zu einem Jahr signifikant verbessert wurden. Viele individuelle Verbesserungen lagen über dem minimalen klinisch bedeutsamen Unterschied, dem Schwellenwert, der für die Teilnehmer als bedeutsam erachtet wird. Die individuellen Verbesserungen variierten, aber viele hielten bis zu einem Jahr an, wenn die Behandlung mit dem Vielight Neuro Gamma zu Hause fortgesetzt wurde. Es gab einen nachweisbaren Hawthorne-Effekt, der unterhalb des Behandlungseffekts lag. Es wurden keine Nebenwirkungen der Behandlung beobachtet.

References

1. Jang, J. Y., Blum, A., Liu, J., & Finkel, T. (2018). The role of mitochondria in aging. The Journal of clinical investigation, 128(9), 3662–3670. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI120842
2. Dompe, C., Moncrieff, L., Matys, J., Grzech-Leśniak, K., Kocherova, I., Bryja, A., Bruska, M., Dominiak, M., Mozdziak, P., Skiba, T., Shibli, J. A., Angelova Volponi, A., Kempisty, B., & Dyszkiewicz-Konwińska, M. (2020). Photobiomodulation-Underlying Mechanism and Clinical Applications. Journal of clinical medicine, 9(6), 1724. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm9061724
3. Suski, J. M., Lebiedzinska, M., Bonora, M., Pinton, P., Duszynski, J., & Wieckowski, M. R. (2012). Relation between mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS formation. In Mitochondrial bioenergetics (pp. 183-205). Humana Press.
4. Wang X., Tian F., Soni S.S., Gonzalez-Lima F., Liu H. Interplay between up-regulation of cytochrome-c-oxidase and hemoglobin oxygenation induced by near-infrared laser. Sci. Rep. 2016;6:30540. doi: 10.1038/srep30540.
5. Hamblin M.R. Photobiomodulation for traumatic brain injury and stroke. J. Neurosci. Res. 2018;96:731–743. doi: 10.1002/jnr.24190.
6. Cardoso FDS, Mansur FCB, Lopes-Martins RÁB, Gonzalez-Lima F, Gomes da Silva S. Transcranial Laser Photobiomodulation Improves Intracellular Signaling Linked to Cell Survival, Memory and Glucose Metabolism in the Aged Brain: A Preliminary Study. Front Cell Neurosci. 2021 Sep 3;15:683127. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2021.683127. PMID: 34539346; PMCID: PMC8446546.
7. Wang, X., Dmochowski, J. P., Zeng, L., Kallioniemi, E., Husain, M., GonzalezLima, F., & Liu, H. (2019). Transcranial photobiomodulation with 1064-nm laser modulates brain electroencephalogram rhythms. Neurophotonics, 6(2), 025013.
8. Vargas E, Barrett DW, Saucedo CL, et al. Beneficial neurocognitive effects of transcranial laser in older adults. Lasers in medical science. 2017;32(5):1153–1162. [PubMed: 28466195]
9. Chao LL. Effects of Home Photobiomodulation Treatments on Cognitive and Behavioral Function, Cerebral Perfusion, and Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Patients with Dementia: A Pilot Trial. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2019 Mar;37(3):133-141. doi: 10.1089/photob.2018.4555. Epub 2019 Feb 13. PMID: 31050950.
10. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophys. 2017;4(3):337-361. doi: 10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337. Epub 2017 May 19. PMID: 28748217; PMCID: PMC5523874.
11. dos Santos Cardoso, F., Mansur, F.C.B., Araújo, B.H.S. et al.Photobiomodulation Improves the Inflammatory Response and Intracellular Signaling Proteins Linked to Vascular Function and Cell Survival in the Brain of Aged Rats. Mol Neurobiol 59, 420–428 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-021-02606-4
12. Braz, I. D., & Fisher, J. P. (2016). The impact of age on cerebral perfusion, oxygenation and metabolism during exercise in humans. The Journal of physiology, 594(16), 4471–4483. https://doi.org/10.1113/JP271081
13. Vargas E, Barrett DW, Saucedo CL, Huang LD, Abraham JA, Tanaka H, Haley AP, Gonzalez-Lima F. Beneficial neurocognitive effects of transcranial laser in older adults. Lasers Med Sci. 2017 Jul;32(5):1153-1162. doi: 10.1007/s10103-017-2221-y. Epub 2017 May 2. PMID: 28466195; PMCID: PMC6802936.
14. Staelens Michael, Di Gregorio Elisabetta, Kalra Aarat P., Le Hoa T., Hosseinkhah Nazanin, Karimpoor Mahroo, Lim Lew, Tuszyński Jack A. Near-Infrared Photobiomodulation of Living Cells, Tubulin, and Microtubules In Vitro, Frontiers in Medical Technology 4. 2022 May 04, https://doi.org/10.3389/fmedt.2022.871196, ISBN:2673-3129
15. Chao LL. Effects of Home Photobiomodulation Treatments on Cognitive and Behavioral Function, Cerebral Perfusion, and Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Patients with Dementia: A Pilot Trial. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2019 Mar;37(3):133-141. doi: 10.1089/photob.2018.4555. Epub 2019 Feb 13. PMID: 31050950.
16. Liebert A, Bicknell B, Laakso EL, Heller G, Jalilitabaei P, Tilley S, Mitrofanis J, Kiat H. Improvements in clinical signs of Parkinson’s disease using photobiomodulation: a prospective proof-of-concept study. BMC Neurol. 2021 Jul 2;21(1):256. doi: 10.1186/s12883-021-02248-y. PMID: 34215216; PMCID: PMC8249215.
17. Sparkman NL, Johnson RW. Neuroinflammation associated with aging sensitizes the brain to the effects of infection or stress. Neuroimmunomodulation. 2008;15(4-6):323-30. doi: 10.1159/000156474. Epub 2008 Nov 26. PMID: 19047808; PMCID: PMC2704383.
18. Simen AA, Bordner KA, Martin MP, Moy LA, Barry LC. Cognitive dysfunction with aging and the role of inflammation. Ther Adv Chronic Dis. 2011 May;2(3):175-95. doi: 10.1177/2040622311399145. PMID: 23251749; PMCID: PMC3513880.
19. Yang T, Sun Y, Lu Z, Leak RK, Zhang F. The impact of cerebrovascular aging on vascular cognitive impairment and dementia. Ageing Res Rev. 2017 Mar;34:15-29. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2016.09.007. Epub 2016 Sep 28. PMID: 27693240; PMCID: PMC5250548.
20. Salgado AS, Zângaro RA, Parreira RB, Kerppers II. The effects of transcranial LED therapy (TCLT) on cerebral blood flow in the elderly women. Lasers in medical science. 2015;30(1):339– 346. doi: 10.1007/s10103-014-1669-2 [PubMed: 25277249]
21. Yang T, Sun Y, Lu Z, Leak RK, Zhang F. The impact of cerebrovascular aging on vascular cognitive impairment and dementia. Ageing Res Rev. 2017 Mar;34:15-29. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2016.09.007. Epub 2016 Sep 28. PMID: 27693240; PMCID: PMC5250548.

The post Kognitiver Verfall älterer Menschen und Photobiomodulation des Gehirns first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Kognitiver Verfall älterer Menschen und Photobiomodulation des Gehirns appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

At Vielight, we work tirelessly to offer products that are helpful to improve brain functions. A large part of this relates to the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) to modulate brain waveforms. Here we share why this understanding is useful, starting with the neurofeedback practitioners’ perspective.

Neurofeedback training and the brain 

Every brain is unique. Neurofeedback practitioners know that our brains respond to external stimuli in a variety of ways. These sensory stimuli can be helpful in modifying the brain’s responses when those responses are abnormal.

Neurofeedback training is based the principle that the brain uses sensory inputs to learn. Repeated information patterns indicate to your brain how to best prioritize received information. They also teach the brain response strategies to help it to interact most effectively with its immediate environment.

During a neurofeedback session your brain will receive cues based on changes in its attention and arousal. After some repetition, your brain learns which cortical behaviors have greater impacts on auditory or visual feedback patterns. As it learns, the brain begins to generate more of those desired responses and behaviors. Instead of traditional psychological “stick and carrot” techniques, neurofeedback targets the brain directly by employing various forms of stimulation.

Furthermore, neurofeedback training helps to train the brain to react differently to a stimulus or a set of stimuli in order to change an individual’s reaction. Brain wave frequencies, or neural oscillations, can play important roles in this process because they are present during specific brain states.

Brain oscillations, neurofeedback training, and photobiomodulation

Neural oscillations and brain states

Every brain state is associated with a particular band of brain frequencies, or rhythms. These rhythms are called “neural oscillations” because they are created by a multitude of neurons communicating with each other. These neural oscillations or brain waves can be registered and measured using an electroencephalogram, or EEG.

There is a correlation between a brain state and the type and frequency of neural oscillations produced during this state. It is possible that by stimulating a particular brain wave frequency, brain activity associated with this frequency can be modulated. Research shows that transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) can be effective in stimulating and modulating the brain.

Interventional and non-interventional ways to affect brain oscillations

EEG is an important part in neurofeedback training. It is a useful, non-interventional method of capturing brain state data and allowing for its analysis. In addition to non-interventional tools like EEG, the neurofeedback training also requires interventional tools. Brain photobiomodulation is one such interventional tool offering a non-invasive form of brain stimulation and modulation using light energy.

While brain PBM can start a restorative biochemical reaction in the neurons, it can also affect the brain’s natural oscillations. It can help to increase or decrease these oscillations, stimulating the brain to change its response. To achieve this goal, the light that is emitted during a tPBM session is pulsed at a specific frequency that is similar to natural brain oscillations. The choice of the pulse rate depends on the issue at hand and on the desired outcome.

A neurofeedback specialist uses equipment to map brain frequencies with qEEG, or quantitative electroencephalogram. Such frequency mapping can be helpful in assessing some deficiencies and abnormalities in the brain’s responses. Furthermore, the brain frequency mapping provides an image of brain oscillations and their respective frequency bands. These brain wave bands are defined differently by different contributors to the field. However, they are most commonly classified into the following five frequency band categories: delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma.

What are unique brain wave frequencies?

Brain’s delta wave frequency band — 0.1 Hz to 4 Hz 

Delta frequencies fall in the range of around 0.1 Hz to 4 Hz, and constitute the lowest range of brain frequencies. Brain activity in this frequency range correlates with the states of deep sleep, along with some anomalous processes.

In addition to being present in stages 3 and 4 of sleep, delta frequencies are also commonly predominant in infants under one year. The delta waves are the slowest and have the highest amplitude. They help the brain to focus inwardly, while decreasing awareness of the outside environment. These waves are helpful in attaining a state of connection with the unconscious mind.

High-performing individuals are able to decrease their delta waves to attain top levels of performance. On the other hand, individuals who are unable to decrease their delta wave activity in the brain can experience difficulty focusing. For example, individuals with attention deficit disorder (ADD) usually experience elevated delta wave activity when attempting to focus. Therefore, individuals with ADD have limited ability to stay focused and pay attention. This inability to focus can occur in anyone who has abnormal and unsuppressed delta wave reactions.

The inability to regulate delta wave activity impedes an individual’s ability to react fast to external stimuli. It can also be the cause of an inability to navigate the outside world with ease.

Brain’s theta wave frequency band — 4 Hz to 8 Hz 

Brain oscillations in the theta waves frequency band fall between approximately 4 Hz and 8 Hz. The brain activity in this frequency range often correlates with creativity, emotions, and sensations. Theta brain frequencies are present during inwardly focused brain activity, as well as the transitional state between alertness and sleep. Theta oscillations are often prominent during states of creative activities, meditation, and spiritual contemplation.

Furthermore, activity in the theta range correlates with states of learning and memory creation and integration. It can also be present during anxious episodes.

In comparison with delta waves, theta waves are faster. However, despite representing faster brain activity, they are also present during sleep. Theta wave activity commonly correlates with distracted or dreamy states and experiences.

Brain’s alpha wave frequency band — 8 Hz to 12 Hz 

Brain oscillations in the alpha wave frequency band fall between approximately 8 Hz and 12 Hz. Alpha wave activity correlates with states that combine relaxation, alertness, and awareness. For example, the brain’s alpha wave activity is present during some stages of meditation. Alpha band activity is also associated with mental resourcefulness, while enhancing a general sense of relaxation.

During alpha wave activity, individuals can accomplish a variety of tasks more efficiently. Alpha brain oscillations promote a sense of calm, allowing the brain to prioritize and to focus better. They are also commonly present in normal adults and teenagers in relaxed states. Alpha wave activity also correlates with a state of alertness, but it is absent when the brain is performing specific tasks.

Furthermore, the brain’s alpha oscillations are present during relaxed learning and while applying knowledge. They occur in both classroom and work environments.

It is possible to increase your brain’s alpha activity by doing deep breathing exercises, or simply by closing your eyes. If you wish to lower your alpha state, you could try doing a complex task, like a mathematical calculation. Alpha wave activity promotes the ability to easily switch between tasks while increasing inner awareness, balance, and calmness. It correlates with faster brain activity than that of delta and theta brain waves. Faster brain wave activity refers to activities in the states of alertness and the execution of cognitive tasks. Slow brain wave activity is present during dream-like and meditative states.

Brain’s beta wave frequency band — 13 Hz to 35 Hz 

Beta frequencies produce faster brain activity than alpha frequencies. Beta frequencies begin at about 13 Hz. This faster frequency occurs during a state of alertness and consciousness. If you are performing an analytical task with your eyes open, your brain’s beta oscillations are at work. This happens because communication among the neurons is increasing.

In general, when you are processing information about the world, beta wave activity is evident in the brain. This activity is present during various tasks ranging from mathematical problem solving to decision making.

Furthermore, because of its significant range, the beta frequency band consists of three sub-ranges — low beta, mid beta, and high beta.

Low Beta Frequency Band — 13 Hz to 15 Hz
The low beta frequency range activity is associated with a more relaxed and focused state.

Mid Beta Frequency Band — 15 Hz to 18 Hz
The mid beta frequency range activity is associated with alertness, mental activity, and focus.

High Beta Frequency Band — 18 Hz to 35 Hz
The high beta frequency range activity is associated with higher levels of alertness and even agitation.

Brain’s gamma wave frequency band — 35 Hz to 100 Hz 

The fastest of the five frequency bands is the gamma frequency. It is prominent when the brain is processing complex information that requires input from different parts of the brain. Intense thinking and problem solving are states that correlate with gamma wave activity. The brain oscillations in the gamma wave frequency band fall between approximately 35 Hz and 100 Hz.

Brain activity associated with a frequency of 40 Hz is of particular importance. The 40 Hz gamma wave activity is, presumably, present and needed for consolidation and complex processing of information from different parts of the brain. Whereas activity in this frequency range correlates with good memory performance, its deficiency correlates with learning issues and even disabilities.

Using photobiomodulation to modulate brain waves 

Considering the importance of brain oscillations, Vielight offers several products that have been found to modulate brain waves using photobiomodulation. The Vielight Neuro Alpha device trains the brain for mainly alpha brain waveforms and improves basic brain network functions. The Neuro Gamma elevates the faster brain waves of beta and gamma, and downregulates the slower delta and theta waves. The new Vielight Neuro Pro device offers the versatility of delivering PBM in the range from 0 to 10,000 Hz.

Understanding the effects of brain oscillations can be helpful in analyzing, supporting, and improving brain wellness. As studies suggest, brain PBM is a non-invasive form of neurostimulation that can help to affect and modulate brain oscillations. PBM with light pulsing at specific frequencies can help modulate and normalize brain oscillations. Considering that brain oscillations represent neural activity, this means that brain PBM can affect neural activity.

The post Brain Waves and Their Usefulness first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Brain Waves and Their Usefulness appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

What is the place of photobiomodulation in a neurofeedback practice?

Every neurofeedback practitioner is aware that human brains prioritize resourcing and organization based on what they pay the most attention to. However, not everyone is aware that photobiomodulation can be an effective way to recruit the brain’s attentional networks for better results.

Neurofeedback and photobiomodulation are relatively new fields. For many, they are still somewhat esoteric fields of brain stimulation, training and modulation. Incidentally, both began their development in the late 1950s. The field of neurofeedback originated in California, while the field of PBM started in Hungary by accident. Furthermore, both can help the brain deal with complex issues while complementing each other.

The brain is an adaptive and self-reinforcing system, and neurofeedback, as a form of brain modulation, attempts to retrain neural response patterns. However, even the most effective neurofeedback interventions can encounter less responsive central nervous systems. Luckily, neurofeedback providers can benefit from having multiple ways to supply information to the brain. Thus, some brains will respond better to tPBM or to a combination of tPBM and EEG feedback. Therefore, having access to modern technological tools that offer a variety of viable brain-training options can improve neurofeedback’s outcomes.

Recent Developments in Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation has emerged as a promising therapy for ameliorating symptoms associated with both mental health and neurophysiological conditions. Early findings recorded in the literature indicate that photobiomodulation has significant clinical potential in the treatment of a number of brain-based disorders. These include, but not limited to, traumatic brain injury (Henderson, 2016), Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s (Johnstone, 2015), improving executive function (Barrett, 2013), memory (Rojas, 2012), stroke and developmental disorders (Hamblin, 2016), and depression (Cassano, 2015).

A meta-analysis of articles examining the link between photobiomodulation and biological processes such as metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress and neurogenesis suggest that these processes are potentially effective targets for photobiomodulation to treat depression and brain injury. There is also preliminary clinical evidence suggesting the efficacy of photobiomodulation in treating major depressive disorder, comorbid anxiety disorders, and suicidal ideation (Cassano, 2016).

Pairing tPBM’s documented enhancement of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and synaptogenesis (Hennessy, 2017) with EEG-based feedback paradigms that focus on supporting neural connectivity (Collura, 2008) potentially offers a novel approach to building better brain infrastructure at any age.

Why is photobiomodulation technology synergetic with neurofeedback? 

Neurofeedback is often based on scalp electroencephalography (EEG), which measures cortical activity, and doesn’t explicitly include activity from subcortical brain regions. However, a specialized transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) system, like Vielight Neuro Pro for example, can deliver NIR light to the brain stem. It can offer a more direct impact to lower central nervous system circuitry. This is one way specialized photobiomodulation technology can complement neurofeedback and help to improve its timeline and effects.

As a source of light, tPBM supports the brain energetically, helping it with energy supply to build new connections. Neurofeedback specialists can take advantage of this new optimized state that is supportive of learning. Furthermore, when this happens, neurofeedback training can help the brain to develop better cognitive functions.

Moreover, technically astute neurofeedback practitioners may prefer additional customization options from their tPBM device to further improve outcomes. They may want to directly impact neural network patterns, particularly if they are qEEG users. This group of neurofeedback specialists may prefer to use advanced features of a professional tPBM system. For example, features like phase synchrony/asynchrony of tPBM pulsing, or options to develop a database of specialized tPBM programs that complement neurofeedback.

What are the benefits of combining neurofeedback and brain photobiomodulation? 

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that is based specifically on brain activity. To put it simply, neurofeedback utilizes neuroplasticity to modulate and change the brain’s response to various stimuli. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and change. To attain such change, the brain needs to go through training. Thus, during the training, the brain learns to adopt a new response to a known stimulus.

Interestingly, additional stimulus or stimuli may be introduced to help the brain change its response. For example, light, color, sound, and tactile sensations are some of the primary stimuli that can be used to retrain the brain during neurofeedback sessions.

Brain photobiomodulation is a way to deliver the light to the brain. Therefore, it can be used as an additional stimulus for neurofeedback. A specialized tPBM system can become a very useful and synergetic tool in neurofeedback. For example, it can act as a mechanism for priming the brain prior to a neurofeedback session. It can also open numerous opportunities for creative approaches to improving neurofeedback outcomes.

Furthermore, neurofeedback practitioners are well aware that some individuals have difficulty tolerating initial neurofeedback sessions. This can be either because of anxiety or sensory processing issues. Therefore, having an alternative intervention that is less time-intensive and doesn’t involve pastes or gels can be helpful. It can provide some early alleviation of symptom intensity until the client is more comfortable with the neurofeedback process.

Effects of transcranial PBM on the brain 

Brain PBM, or tPBM, can be helpful for the brain on cellular level. It helps to support the brain by transcranially delivering the energy of the near-infrared (NIR) light directly to the neurons.

Current abundant research shows that NIR has the best penetration rate and is particularly suitable for brain stimulation and modulation. Although the research into tPBM has a long way to go, the science behind tPBM is gaining acceptance

While therapeutic uses of red light across the body are well documented, research into the effects of various light pulsation frequencies on the brain are more limited. The most commonly known tPBM frequencies are 10 Hz (Alpha) and 40 Hz (Gamma). Both correspond to the respective alpha and gamma oscillations in the brain. Most of the tPBM pulse frequency related research is focused on these two frequencies and below. Thus, the effects of the higher frequency pulse rates on the brain need more research. Modern tPBM systems offer more sophisticated options to conduct tPBM-related research.

The importance of specialized tPBM hardware for neurofeedback 

The absence of hardware suitable for extended research utilizing higher pulse frequencies has been somewhat of a hindrance. However, over the last few years, tPBM research has made significant progress opening the doors for deeper knowledge dives. Thus, both the researchers and practitioners utilizing tPBM are showing interest in studying and analyzing the effects of higher pulse frequencies on the brain.

Furthermore, new technologies and growing body of knowledge are helping to improve the capabilities of new tPBM hardware. For example, the recently introduced Vielight Neuro Pro tPBM system allows setting the pulse frequency between 0 and 10,000 Hz. The Neuro Pro’s numerous other variables can also be changed to find the best possible fit for the task at hand.

Why brain photobiomodulation should be of interest for neurofeedback practitioners?

Many neurofeedback practitioners have already discovered the beneficial synergies between neurofeedback and brain photobiomodulation. Thus, some use functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), others use Frequency and Power Neurofeedback, and there are other forms and options. While practitioners can use different tools for and types of neurofeedback in their practice, many principles stay common.

For example, the concepts of brain mapping and brain priming are familiar to many neurofeedback practitioners. While brain mapping requires measuring tools, brain priming requires interventional tools. However, interventions do not have to be invasive.

One form of noninvasive intervention for brain priming can be transcranial photobiomodulation. There are neurofeedback practitioners who have already discovered the important and effective synergies that tPBM can offer in their work.

Photobiomodulation Research References: 

Barrett D.W., Gonzalez-Lima F. Transcranial infrared laser stimulation produces beneficial cognitive and emotional effects in humans. Neuroscience. 2013;230:13–23. [PubMed]

Cassano P., Petrie S.R., Hamblin M.R., Henderson T.A., Iosifescu D.V. Review of transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder: targeting brain metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurogenesis. Neurophotonics. 2016;3:031404. [PubMed]

Cassano P., Cusin C., Mischoulon D., Hamblin M.R., De Taboada L., Pisoni A., Chang T., Yeung A., Ionescu D.F., Petrie S.R., Nierenberg A.A., Fava M., Iosifescu D.V. Near-infrared transcranial radiation for major depressive disorder: proof of concept study. Psychiatry J. 2015;2015:352979. [PubMed]

Collura, T.F. (2008) Towards a coherent view of brain connectivity. Journal of Neurotherapy. 12, 2–3, 99–110.

De Freitas L.F., Hamblin M.R. Proposed mechanisms of photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy. IEEE J. Sel. Top. Quantum Electron. 2016;22:7000417.

Gonzalez-Lima F., Barrett D.W. Augmentation of cognitive brain functions with transcranial lasers. Front. Syst. Neurosci. 2014;8:36. [PubMed]

Hamblin, M. R. (2016). Shining light on the head: Photobiomodulation for brain disorders. BBA Clinical, 6, 113–124. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.09.002

Henderson T.A., Morries L.D. Near-infrared photonic energy penetration: can infrared phototherapy effectively reach the human brain? Neuropsychiatr. Dis. Treat. 2015;11:2191–2208.[PubMed]

Henderson T.A. Multi-watt near-infrared light therapy as a neuroregenerative treatment for traumatic brain injury. Neural Regen. Res. 2016;11:563–565. [PubMed]

More References: 

Henderson T.A., Morries L.D. SPECT perfusion imaging demonstrates improvement of traumatic brain injury with transcranial near-infrared laser phototherapy. Adv. Mind Body Med. 2015;29:27–33.[PubMed]

Hennessy, M., & Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Photobiomodulation and the brain: a new paradigm. Journal of Optics (2010), 19(1), 013003–. https://doi.org/10.1088/2040-8986/19/1/013003

Johnstone D.M., Moro C., Stone J., Benabid A.L., Mitrofanis J. Turning on lights to stop neurodegeneration: the potential of near infrared light therapy in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Front. Neurosci. 2015;9:500. [PubMed]

Rojas J.C., Bruchey A.K., Gonzalez-Lima F. Low-level light therapy improves cortical metabolic capacity and memory retention. J. Alzheimers Dis. 2012;32:741–752. [PubMed]

Rojas, JC., Gonzalez-Lima, F. Neurological and psychological applications of transcranial lasers and LEDs. Biochem Pharmacol. 2013 Aug 15;86(4):447-57. doi: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.06.012. Epub 2013 Jun 24.

The post Brain Stimulation: Neurofeedback and Photobiomodulation first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Brain Stimulation: Neurofeedback and Photobiomodulation appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

Furthermore, various practitioners and influencers in the health and wellness space are actively promoting the benefits of red light. Some professional sports teams now have red light therapy rooms, to capitalize on its benefits. All of this creates a lot of buzz. Thus, more people are starting to look at red light products as options for their wellness needs.

Many of these options are viable, and many benefits are documented and well-supported by clinical and exploratory research. However, if you are a novice to this rapidly growing field called red light therapy, you may find yourself disoriented. There are so many products and so many options to choose from, and the terminology can be confusing.

Red light vs near infrared light

The term “red light therapy” is often used liberally and may be extended to include near infrared light therapy. Although similar in principle, these forms of light therapy have some distinct differences and should be differentiated. There are similar effects in which both induce biochemical mechanisms that stimulate cellular processes.

One important difference between red and near infrared forms of light is the wavelength of the light. Red light falls into the 620-700 nm wavelength spectrum and is visible to the human eye. Near infrared light falls into the 800-2500 nm wavelength spectrum. This form of light is not visible to the naked eye. However, Near infrared light can penetrate deeper into the body, and even can pass through the skull. Therefore, emerges the term transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM), which refers to the near infrared light therapy intended to stimulate the brain.

The focus of this article is to provide introductory information about red light therapy for the newcomers interested in this space.

Brief history of light therapy

There can be disagreements on where actual roots of the red light therapy begin. Some can argue that the father of light therapy was Dr. Niels Ryberg Finsen (1860-1904), a Danish physician and scientist. Dr. Finsen studied effects of the concentrated electric light on patients with lupus vulgaris, a form of tuberculosis. In 1903 he received a Nobel Prize in psychology for his innovative treatment method using light.

Dr. Finsen’s work is scientifically important and has major historic significance. However, it is more common to start the clock of modern red-light therapy history with Dr. Endre Master (1903–1984). A Hungarian physician, Dr. Master developed the first low-level laser (LLL) device in 1967. In his studies of LLL’s effects on cancer, he accidentally noticed its effects of accelerated wound healing in laboratory mice.

Today, more than half-a-century later, scientists, engineers and medical professionals are still studying the effects of red light on the human body. The modern trailblazers of light therapy have access to new technologies which were not available to its original pioneers. Furthermore, it also expanded the understanding of the science behind the effects of red-light therapy on human physiology.

Light therapy research and advancement

Numerous studies have been conducted and published, advancing the depth of understanding of light therapy, and expanding the scope of its applications. Thus, to date, there are over six thousand published research papers on the subject of light therapy.

New research has provided important data supporting therapeutic effects of red light. Still, despite years of research, many consider red light to be therapeutically controversial and ambiguous modality. This happens due to its status as an alternative therapy which stands outside of the traditional medical protocols.

However, research, new technologies, and modern design and manufacturing capabilities are helping to shift the state of red-light therapy. Thus, some new protocols include red light therapy as a modality for a number of indications in dentistry. Furthermore, there are recent studies that highlight the benefits of red light in other medical applications for humans. Some of these new applications go beyond the scope of general wellness and cross into the medical domain. The use of red light for animal care is even more extensive.

With regards to the general wellness applications, red light therapy acceptance is growing even faster. As the costs of new products decrease, the adoption increases. For example, red-light LEDs show the same effect as low level lasers. As LEDs are safer, and cheaper to manufacture, there is growth in new LED red light therapy devices for numerous applications. With quantity comes quality. The interest in the products increases, as more users recognize the benefits, acceptance and demand grow.

What are the types of red-light therapy devices and applications?

There are red light panels, red light masks, red light intranasal devices, red light beds, red light helmets and simple red-light lamps. The diversity of available light therapy products is growing every year. With multitude and diversity come new designs.

The terminology is also evolving. For example, photobiomodulation is a commonly used term for light therapy, particularly red and near infrared light therapies. Yet, there are  (PBM), and red light therapy is one of them.

For example, there is a range of red-light therapy devices focused on topical applications. Thus, this group includes devices intended to improve hair growth, skin aging, clarity and wrinkles. Other devices come with a promise to shrink your waistline. Importantly, most of them can cite support of at least one published research study.

The majority of devices used for topical applications are red light panels. They come in different sizes and with different power options. Some panels include both red light and near infrared light sources. Other therapy devices in the topical category include red.

Red light therapy devices for muscle relaxation and recovery

Yet another group of red-light therapy products offers help with muscle relaxation and recovery, and promises physical performance enhancement. Red light therapy panels and beds are the most common design options in this. However, this is the domain where red light devices are competing with near infrared light devices. There are also devices that combine both red and near infrared light, like Vielight X-Plus, for example, a wearable PBM device designed for personal, at-home use.

The list of use cases for red light therapy devices goes on, and there will be much more to come

The post Red Light Therapy Information for Beginners first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Red Light Therapy Information for Beginners appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

A creative and curious mind can be a beginning of something new, something important, even something big. This is as true in the field of arts as it is in the field of sciences. This article offers one more testament to these observations.

Penijean Gracefire is a licensed mental health counsellor (LMHC) in the state of Florida. She focuses on the applications of neurofeedback in her work with clients. Like many neurofeedback practitioners, she is excited by technology that can help her in her work. Unlike most, she is a techno geek, when it comes to her tools. Moreover, her interest in and fascination with technology helps her to discover new ways of helping her clients. She also happened to have an affinity for engineering and innovation, and pushes the frontier of her tools to the limits.

Thus, one day Penijean discovered trascranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) and Vielight’s tPBM devices. What happened when a talented neurofeedback practitioner with a curious mind decided on combining neurofeedback with photobiomodulation. Let’s find out the answer directly from Penijean Gracefire, LMHC.

How long have you been working with transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM)?

Penijean: I’ve been interested in how light affects brains and bodies for as long as I can remember. Sometimes I joke that my interest in the therapeutic applications of light began when I was four years old. That is when I discovered that I could soothe a fussy younger sibling using a prism. Even as a child I noticed that my mood was affected by light and color, and I wanted to know why.

I picked up my first infrared light therapy device in 2005. Then I spent some years using tPBM for peripheral applications, such as relaxation and pain management.

What have brought you to tPBM initially and why did you stay with it?

Penijean: My initial experience using tPBM to stimulate the peripheral nervous system was informative and useful. However, I found that the applications were limited for my interests. Eventually I moved on to interventions that focused more on the central nervous system.

In 2017, I met Dr. Lew Lim at a neurofeedback conference. Our discussion of his Vielight Neuro device reignited my interest in tPBM. At that time I had been sitting on ideas for integrating infrared stim (stimulation) into a closed loop neuromodulation design. Dr. Lim was willing to allow me to use the Vielight platform to start creating new techniques. My design concept incorporated both the tPBM and the neurofeedback protocols.

The early results from the prototype designs were very promising. Thus, tPBM has become a much more central element in my protocol design process. I found it to be an excellent and naturally fitting complement to neurofeedback.

Where do you see synergies between tPBM and neurofeedback?

Penijean: Research indicates that tPBM has potential to support synaptogenesis – the creation of new synapses. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4870908/

Neurofeedback relies on brain plasticity (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuroplasticity) to help individuals learn new ways to process information and regulate stress responses. Injury or illness can reduce neural capacity to adapt in real time to the changing demands of our environment. Brains need healthy and flexible neural networks to be able to prioritize and shift attention. Furthermore, they need to have the capacity to signal the central nervous system to wind down and relax. For example, this would be useful when a busy day is over.

Helping brains develop new connections, which support better function, is an important part of neurofeedback training. In my view, tPBM can potentially support the growth of those new pathways.

Combining tPBM with Neurofeedback, have you noticed anything new that could have a strong potential for helping your clients?

Penijean: The “feedback” part of neurofeedback means that we are giving the brain information based on its own behavioral changes. Typically, this feedback consists of musical sounds or visual data displays or, perhaps, an object that physically vibrates. For the feedback to work, it needs to be sufficiently novel and stimulating to recruit the brain’s attention.

After experimenting with and designing a number of innovative feedback techniques, I created the first EEG-modulated pEMF designs. While pEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, EEG stands for electroencephalogram. This protocol design has tremendous therapeutic potential. At the same time, these new integrated training protocols were yielding very exciting results. However, I work with many populations that are medically fragile and have compromised systems. Therefore, not all cases were suitable for the information-dense combination of neurofeedback and pEMF.

Combining Neurofeedback and Photobiomodulation

For some individuals, integrated tPBM and neurofeedback offers the perfect balance. Thus, on the one hand, this combination provides not so much feedback that their system feels overwhelmed. On the other hand, it provides not too little feedback that would fail to effectively recruit the brain’s attention.

I adapted my designs and created the first closed loop EEG-modulated pNIR (pulsed near-infrared light) protocols. This means that the individual not only simultaneously receives both the tPBM and the neurofeedback, but the NIR pulses themselves are changing in real time based on live EEG.

The combination of neurofeedback and tPBM is like a conversation with a wise friend while sitting in the afternoon sun. You receive both, the benefits of learning new helpful things about yourself and the benefits of absorbing natural light.

TPBM is the light source that supports your brain energetically, as it builds new connections. When this happens, the neurofeedback takes advantage of this optimized learning state to help your brain develop better cognitive function.

Can you provide some examples of how you employ tPBM in your neurofeedback practice?

Penijean: The practical flexibility of tPBM in a clinical setting is one of its strengths. Whether I use tPBM as a standalone therapeutic approach or combine it with other modalities often depends on individual needs.

Some people are sufficiently responsive. Thus, for them, 5-10 minutes of tPBM by itself is enough to produce a noticeable impact. Other people are a little more resilient. For those, I may do multiple things in a session, but in a sequence instead of simultaneously.

TPBM can be an effective primer at the beginning of a session before introducing sensory grounding techniques, or heart rate variability training. By applying tPBM to the head, we can help stimulate neural activity immediately prior to a neurofeedback session.

When combining tPBM with other modalities, you are only limited by your own creativity. Therefore, I try to be as creative as appropriate. For example, I may have someone wear a pair of violet eye lenses while receiving a 40hz tPBM stimulation. This helps to create a shift in gamma activity. I can also have someone wear a pair of dark amber or orange lenses, when receiving a 10hz stimulation. This can help to support slowing down into a more alpha-wave friendly state.

I noticed that layering other inputs over tPBM can also help with state flexibility and integration. Thus, utilizing inputs like binaural beats, vibrating sensory aids, or progressive relaxation audio can be helpful.

What benefits do you see tPBM on its own and in combination with neurofeedback can provide at this stage?

Penijean: A helpful way to think about these modalities is in terms of how much of a resource demand they place on a nervous system. This can be in terms of demand on attention, arousal, processing and integration. Each technique is a different way of asking the brain to prioritize and learn from specific types of sensory information. Furthermore, different brains may respond differently to the stimuli.

Some brains learn more easily when we present information to them in simpler ways. Those people make quicker, more noticeable progress, if they receive tPBM and neurofeedback separately. This separation can be done either during different sessions, or at different times during a session.

Other brains have more capacity for integrating complex information. They seem to benefit more from the combination of neurofeedback and tPBM. Often such individuals are less medically fragile and have more physical resources to help them process more dense cognitive tasks.

Both of these approaches are beneficial. Usually, we start with the simpler approach and build up over time to more complex feedback designs.

What benefits do your clients report during and following your protocols that include tPBM?

Penijean: Clients report results across a wide spectrum. Some improvements are expected, such as better sleep, more functional attention and cognitive flexibility, and less anxiety. However, I am pleasantly surprised by how frequently clients report unanticipated benefits.

For example, one elderly woman recovered her ability to remember music that she thought she lost years ago. An executive who came to reduce his anxiety around work was very happy to discover his golf game improved significantly. Children, brought in by parents concerned about academic performance, have noticed improved visual integration, better frontal lobe inhibition, and increased social awareness. As you can see, there is a lot to learn.

As you are aware, Vielight has developed and will be launching a unique new tPBM device, the Neuro Pro. What do you think the applications of the Neuro Pro can be for neurofedback practitioners and their patients specifically?

Penijean: Being both a health and wellness practitioner and a designer of innovative ways to interact with the brain, I am limited only by two things. These things are my own creativity, and the capabilities of my tools. I am someone who tends to push devices to their limits. Therefore, I am always looking for user interfaces that allow as much customization and choice as the platform can support.

The Neuro Pro is the type of device, which will allow to design and build tPBM sessions specifically tailored to a specific individual. The capacity for programming a series of pulses based on a person’s unique EEG signatures will be unprecedented.

While not every practitioner will want to design their own protocols, the Neuro Pro will still provide the platform for all practitioners to run the protocols developed by researchers.

New Brain Modulation Techniques

When new effective brain modulation techniques emerge, they can only spread as widely as the availability of the technology. Neuro Pro will support the innovation of new tPBM protocols. At the same time it will provide the devices by which these protocols can be implemented and used.

This means that neurofeedback providers will be able to pair up more precise tPBM protocols with the customized EEG biofeedback. Techniques that have not been possible before, such as cross frequency coupling feedback timed synced with near infrared pulses, to improve neural networks, or ramping frequency delivery protocols that help the brain learn state flexibility, may become much more accessible.

What could be the applications of this device for researchers and health and wellness practitioners dealing with human brains?

Penijean: One of the critical principles of interacting with the brain in effective ways is being able to observe and, to a degree, mimic some of the complex dynamics, which make up flexible neural states. The brain habituates quickly to repetitive stimuli, because so it can prioritize its limited resources.

The Neuro Pro offers the possibility of building more sophisticated and precise tPBM protocols. These protocols could not only capture the brain’s attention better, but also could produce informational sequences, which more closely match neural patterns. Thus, this Vielight device opens potential for advanced stimulation designs that can target network behaviors with more nuance and specificity.

What else would you like to add in conclusion?

Penijean: In an increasingly tech savvy society, as we are suffering from the habitual overexposure to specific light frequencies from heavy screen use, it seems poetic to me that we may be able to help rewire these brains using other types of light. The light is information. Our bodies rely on light sources to help us regulate various systems and functions. Thus, regulating circadian rhythms, affecting our sleep cycles, our immune systems, our metabolism, and our mental health are some possibilities.

Wavelengths of light are a language. The more we learn, the better we can speak to our body in ways, which it recognizes as familiar and healing. Transcranial photobiomodulation could be an invaluable mechanism in our pursuit of improving brain’s function and wellbeing.

The post Combining Neurofeedback with Photobiomodulation first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Combining Neurofeedback with Photobiomodulation appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Vielight PBM research and development efforts continue first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Vielight PBM research and development efforts continue appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

This issue of the newsletter is a report by Dr. Lew Lim, Founder & CEO of Vielight Inc., presented below.

2020 was Not All Doom and Gloom

2020 was a year like no other! When COVID-19 hit, it affected every person in one way or another. Here at Vielight, we were not spared. Our ongoing major clinical trials — the Alzheimer’s Disease and traumatic brain injury trials — were forced on hold. Other studies were also paused or prevented from starting because they require human contact, including those requiring the use of EEG.

The ominous doom and gloom, fear, and isolation caused by this pandemic did not halt Vielight’s busy agenda. Instead, it ignited a fire within the Vielight team to find a solution using photobiomodulation (PBM) to put a stop to the novel coronavirus. Fortunately, the science behind the Vielight X-Plus shows that it has the potential to do this. This led to the creation of our clinical study device — the Vielight RX Plus — and the birth of a plan to validate its effectiveness in a rigorous clinical trial. Despite our limited resources of a small company, the dedicated tenacity of our team led us to launch our COVID-19 clinical trial in the USA and Canada in September 2020.

Although recruiting subjects has been challenging, and we faced numerous additional hurdles, we hope to be in the position to report interim findings in the spring of 2021. To those who have helped us with the recruitment of subjects in the United States and Canada, we thank you.

If the research data is positive and passes the scrutiny of regulators, the Vielight RX Plus will be offered as a home-use medical device to accelerate recovery from COVID-19 infections. With clearance from the applicable regulatory bodies, we hope to validate publicly the biological mechanisms behind this technology. Until the research data is validated, the biological mechanisms remain hypothetical. 

We are still recruiting trial participants

If you know someone with COVID-19, kindly refer them to our clinical trial, as we are still recruiting. Participants are required to use the RX Plus for one month. More information can be found at https://covidlightstudy.com.

Although the pandemic has restrained our research activities, we are still busy researching new ways of applying PBM to improve wellness just by the touch of a button using our portable, user-friendly home-use devices. We will be releasing a few new products in the next few months — please check our website for announcements! 

Vielight New Product Releases in 2021

“Vielight Relief” for Managing Focal Pain

The “Vielight Relief” is a new product, planned for release by the spring of 2021. This unique device is Vielight’s foray into the medical device category. It is planned as a home-use medical device to provide relief from acute and chronic pain in focal areas of the body. More information will be released soon. Like all Vielight products, it is user-friendly and can be placed on nearly any part of the body, except the eyes. 

“Vielight Vagus” for Improving Vagal Tone

The “Vielight Vagus” is a new patent-pending product, planned for release by the spring of 2021. It is the world’s first general wellness PBM device with LEDs specifically positioned bilaterally over the major vagus nerves at the neck area. This user-friendly home-use device is designed to achieve good vagal tone, which is associated with reduced stress, a balanced healthy body, and an alert mind — often the aim of biofeedback practitioners and biohackers. 

“Vielight Reflex” for Improving Sports Performance

The “Vielight Reflex” is another new patent-pending product, planned for release by the fall of 2021. This device is the first general wellness brain stimulation device intended to improve the speed of reflexes requiring eye-hand coordination. The
Vielight Reflex is designed to stimulate the visual and motor cortical areas of the brain, which is backed by neuroscience. This wearable device is developed for
athletes and E-gamers looking to gain
an edge.

“Vielight Neuro Pro”

The much-anticipated Neuro Pro has been under intensive product development by Vielight over the last three years. It will be the most sophisticated brain PBM device available in the general wellness category. Primarily designed for research, this user-friendly device can also be used by non-experts to improve brain performance by adjusting different parameters. The Neuro Pro also allows for future modular upgrades and improvements.

Early testing by advanced meditators produced some extraordinary outcomes, providing a window to the vast possibilities of improving brain function with this device. Our team is working on an education program to help users enjoy exploring the potential of their brain using the
Vielight Pro. We hope to launch a meditation study with this device soon.

In addition to the above announcements, we are in the process of upgrading some of our existing devices to incorporate the latest component technologies.

Research programs in 2021

2021 will see the progress of ongoing research projects, as well as the launch of new ones. Aside from the COVID-19 clinical trial, we hope to be able to see some results in the Alzheimer’s and traumatic brain injury clinical trials. Along with these and the above-mentioned COVID-19 trials, we also hope to observe data from our studies on cognition, biological markers in diseases, EEG, and MRI markers. These biomarker studies are significant, because they lead to a better understanding of produced physiological effects that, in turn, help to explain the associated biochemical mechanisms. More studies like these provide great potential for personalization and possibilities of treatments with Vielight devices in the future

In Conclusion

As you can see, Vielight is a busy place. The team is highly proactive, directing considerable effort towards discoveries and innovations. A major objective is to translate these efforts into the development of affordable devices that anyone can use at home without the requirement of extensive training. In the development of these devices, safety, accomplished by rigorous testing, is always our top priority. In the process, we ultimately seek to improve the quality of lives for many.

On behalf of all at Vielight, have a SAFE and HAPPY 2021!

Lew Lim, PhD, MBA
Founder & CEO, Vielight Inc.

The post Transforming Vielight’s Innovation Into New Products first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Transforming Vielight’s Innovation Into New Products appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

Light therapy terminology could be bewildering. The only way around this is to understand this terminology, the meaning behind the terms and the types of light therapy. If you are new to the light therapy space, you may find this cascade of names overwhelming and confusing. Hopefully, this article will help you to bring some order and clarity on the subject of light therapy related terminology.

Red light therapy and low-level laser therapy (LLL) are terms that describe the use of light in therapeutic applications. These terms are better known, because they have been around longer than other terms denoting light therapy. For example, near infrared light therapy (NIR) and infrared light therapy (ILT) are also two forms of light therapy. Their names are defined by the spectrum of the wavelength used. Each of them, as well as the red light therapy, can be a form of LLL. Another term for light therapy, that is more recent, is photobiomodulation therapy, PBM or PBMT.

Understanding the differences among various forms of light therapy is not as complicated as it might seem at first. The easiest way to start is to understand the related terminology. To do that, you should start from the top of the hierarchy and move down the chain. Along the way you will be able to learn and understand the relevant terms.

The Hierarchy of the Light Therapy Terminology

The term light therapy is the original name. Therefore, it stands at the top of the hierarchy. More modern equivalent of light therapy is photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). Thus, these two terms are equal in meaning and occupy the top position in the hierarchy. The next level deeper brings about terms that are critical in understanding of the variety of forms of light therapy.

Already mentioned earlier, low-level laser therapy, is one of the earliest modern forms of light therapy. Originally developed in the 60s, this name became equivalent to the name light therapy. They are often used interchangeably. However, this is not a completely correct way to use these terms. While LLL is a form of light therapy, it is not its only form. Furthermore, LLL usually refers to light therapy in the red light thorough to infrared wavelength spectrum. Yet, today, there are numerous other light therapy options from yellow to blue to ultraviolet light spectra.

This article will focus only on the subjects relevant to the light therapy in the red to infrared spectra. This should help to avoid any confusion regarding beneficial effects of light. Thus, unlike the light in red to infrared spectra, light of other spectra could be harmful in some cases. For example, ultraviolet light can cause harm, if it is used improperly. However, that is the subject matter which outside of the scope of this article.

LLL and LED Light Therapy Options

Since the invention of LLL, technological advancements allowed the use of modern light emitting diodes (LED) for light therapy. Thus, LEDs dethroned low level lasers (LLL) as the only option for light therapy. Nonetheless, many are still using the term LLL synonymously with light therapy. Just like the brand name “Hoover” displaced the common name “vacuum cleaner” for many, “LLL” displaced “light therapy” for some. However, regardless of individual preferences for terminology, the reality is that today LLLs and LEDs share the light therapy space. Each one is prominent in its own rights and for numerous applications in general wellness, medicine and beauty related fields.

The Top Levels of Light Therapy Terminology

To sum up, the two top levels of the light therapy hierarchy are:
Level 1: Light Therapy or Photobiomodulation (PBM)
Level 2: Low level laser (LLL) therapy and LED-based light therapy.

The next level down brings about terms that differentiate forms of photobiomodulation by the wavelength of light. Thus, you may encounter terms like red light therapy, near infrared light therapy and infrared light therapy. While these three types of photobiomodulation closely related, they also differ.

Prior to discussing these three wavelength options, it is important to note again that there are others. For example, ultraviolet light, blue light, green light, they all have their uses. They differ in wavelength and the quality of light. However, most importantly, they differ in the effects of these types of light on the body.

As you may recall, the focus of this article is on the light in the red to infrared spectra. Therefore, there will be no discussion of any light in the other spectra. You will be ahead of the game, if you remember that the applications of those forms of light are different.

Photobiomodulation using Light in the Red to Infrared Spectra

The red light waves fall in the range of 600 nm to 700 nm. The near infrared light waves fall into the 700 nm to 1400 nm range. The term “near infrared” alludes to the fact that this is the type of invisible infrared light that is closest to the visible red light range. Last, but not least, is the infrared light, which falls into the 780 nm to 1 mm wavelength spectrum. These three types of light have different depths of penetration and absorption by the life tissue. Therefore, their applications are in accordance with those factors.

Thus, to sum up, the next level in the terminology hierarchy belongs to the wavelengths of the light. The focus of this article is primarily on red to infrared light spectra. Other wavelengths of light, from yellow to blue, are also suitable for various forms of light therapy applications.

Level 3: Photobiomodulation based on the light wavelength, or spectrum:

1. Red light therapy.
2. Near infrared light therapy.
3. Infrared light therapy.

Types of Photobiomodulation by Application

Now you can differentiate three levels in defining light therapy or PBM. Moving forward, the next level in the hierarchy of terminology defines PBM by application type. Thus, red light therapy is suitable for topical and systemic applications. It can be used for wound healing, for various forms of skin therapy, for muscle relaxation and more. Numerous studies provide evidence to support benefits for these applications.

The term systemic photobiomodulation defines applications of red light therapy via the blood. Relatively recent research has shown that blood contains free-floating mitochondria, which absorbs the energy of red light. The term systemic implies that this type of light therapy can produce systemic effects in the body.

Using Light Therapy for Brain Stimulation

Perhaps the most complex and sophisticated application of light therapy is its use for brain stimulation. This form of light therapy is called transcranial photobiomodulation or tPBM. The light is used to penetrate through the skin, muscles and the cranium to reach the brain. Current research shows that the best form of light for tPBM is near infrared light (NIR). NIR has presented best penetration and absorption rates, and these facts have been documented using EEG and MRI scans of the brain.

The post Light Therapy Terminology first appeared on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.

The post Light Therapy Terminology appeared first on Vielight Inc - Deutsch.