Thanks to the efforts of Weifang Medical University in China, light could fight the symptoms of Alzheimer's. The research, a meticulous analysis of 15 clinical studies, opens a new chapter in the non-pharmacological approach to the disease, highlighting (literally) the potential of photobiomodulation. Sail link here, if you want to delve deeper into it: in the meantime, let's talk about it.
What is photobiomodulation
La photobiomodulation (PBM) is a treatment that uses light of specific wavelengths to stimulate the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the brain, a region crucial in regulating sleep which (as recently discovered) is also linked to Alzheimer's. This innovative therapy aims to restore balance to patients' circadian rhythms, which are often compromised by the disease.
An innovative approach to Alzheimer's symptoms
Alzheimer's, a disease that primarily affects cognitive function, brings with it a series of psychobehavioral symptoms and sleep disturbances. About 70% of patients suffer from sleep disruption in the early stages of the disease, and almost all manifest symptoms such as apathy, depression, agitation and aggression. Photobiomodulation emerges as a beacon of hope, offering an improvement in sleep quality and a lightening of the emotional burden of caregivers.
The practice of light therapy
Light therapy involves exposure to bright, sunlight-like light, with intensity up to 10.000 lux, for about half an hour a day. Retinal receptors transmit light information to the SCN, which in turn coordinates our natural circadian rhythm, a 24-hour body clock.
Previously used to treat depression, especially seasonal affective disorder, photobiomodulation shows great potential as a solution for Alzheimer's patients as well.
Results and considerations
Despite the enthusiasm, in my opinion the research is not without weaknesses, paradoxically due to the amount of data observed. Differences in the light technologies used, wavelengths and treatment times lead to some variability in results.
Discrepancies in patient populations also suggest the need for further investigation. It should be noted, however, that the trend seems solid even net of the margin of error: the benefits observed in the improvement of sleep efficiency, depressed mood and agitated behavior are encouraging.
The light at the end of the (long) tunnel
The path towards a definitive cure for Alzheimer's is still long, but photobiomodulation is a promising ally to "illuminate" it and alleviate the symptoms of the disease. The study authors urge further large-scale research to confirm the effectiveness and safety of light therapy. With a careful eye on the potential side effects of intense light and the need to personalize treatments, the scientific community looks with optimism at this new frontier.
The idea of using light (such a fundamental and natural element) to improve the quality of life of patients offers new hope in a field that desperately needs it.
