ArticleStem cell research & therapy2024
Near-infrared light induces neurogenesis and modulates anxiety-like behavior.
Article in Stem cell research & therapy, 2024. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers.
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Who cites it
2 citing papers in PubMed.
- Leveraging Fiber Photometry to Decipher Neural Circuits Underlying Anxiety in Mice.Fundamental & clinical pharmacology · 2025Review
- Anxiolytic Effects of Natural Products: Pathological Mechanisms, Molecular Targets, Therapeutic Prospects.Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment · 2025Review
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Authors and funding
11 authors.
Funding
Abstract
backgroundThe hippocampus is associated with mood disorders, and the activation of quiescent neurogenesis has been linked to anxiolytic effects. Near-infrared (NIR) light has shown potential to improve learning and memory in human and animal models. Despite the vast amount of information regarding the effect of visible light, there is a significant gap in our understanding regarding the response of neural stem cells (NSCs) to NIR stimulation, particularly in anxiety-like behavior. The present study aimed to develop a new optical manipulation approach to stimulate hippocampal neurogenesis and understand the mechanisms underlying its anxiolytic effects.
methodsWe used 940 nm NIR (40 Hz) light exposure to stimulate hippocampal stem cells in C57BL/6 mice. The enhanced proliferation and astrocyte differentiation of NIR-treated NSCs were assessed using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation and immunofluorescence assays. Additionally, we evaluated calcium activity of NIR light-treated astrocytes using GCaMP6f recording through fluorescence fiber photometry. The effects of NIR illumination of the hippocampus on anxiety-like behaviors were evaluated using elevated plus maze and open-field test.
resultsNIR light effectively promoted NSC proliferation and astrocyte differentiation via the OPN4 photoreceptor. Furthermore, NIR stimulation significantly enhanced neurogenesis and calcium-dependent astrocytic activity. Moreover, activating hippocampal astrocytes with 40-Hz NIR light substantially improved anxiety-like behaviors in mice.
conclusionsWe found that flickering NIR (940 nm/40Hz) light illumination improved neurogenesis in the hippocampus with anxiolytic effects. This innovative approach holds promise as a novel preventive treatment for depression.
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