Studies show that exposure to long wavelengths (650-900 nm) for several weeks partially restores ATP and improves mitochondrial function.
The mitochondrial membrane potential decreases with age, leading to reduced production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main source of cellular energy. Cell loss with ageing is further accelerated by increased production of pro-inflammatory reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, studies show that exposure to long wavelengths (650-900 nm) for several weeks improves mitochondrial function, increases ATP production and reduces ROS.
Brief morning exposure to 670 nm red light resulted in a significant improvement in colour contrast sensitivity
The colour contrast sensitivity was assessed through the tritan (blue-yellow) and protan (red-green) colour axes. The results showed that on the tritan axis, there was an average reduction in threshold (i.e., increase in sensitivity) of 17% in both men and women. On the protan axis, the improvement was more modest â 10% in men and 14% in women. The highest improvement on the tritan axis was observed in people over 50 years of age â around 20%. The improvement on the protan axis was slightly more even across age groups â around 12%. The improvement in colour contrast sensitivity persisted even one week after a single exposure. This suggests that red light has a more lasting effect on retinal function, and shows the potential of red light as a non-invasive way to promote sensitivity to colour contrasts, particularly in older age.
