Research from The Trauma and Transfusion Medicine Research Center (TTMRC) at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC found that exposure to long-wavelength red light reduced blood clot rates in humans and mice. Published on January 10, 2025, in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, the study suggests this could lower risks of heart attacks, lung damage, and strokes. Clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings, which could lead to a cost-effective therapy benefiting millions.
Lead author Elizabeth Andraska highlighted that light exposure can influence biological processes and health such as metabolism, blood flow, and hormones as well as strokes and heart attacks. The study involved exposing mice to red, blue, or white light for 12 hours, followed by 12 hours of darkness. Mice exposed to red light had significantly fewer blood clots compared to those exposed to blue or white light.
Additionally, analysis of over 10,000 cataract surgery patients showed that those with blue light-filtering lenses had a lower risk of blood clots, especially among cancer patients. The research team is now developing red light goggles for clinical trials to explore this therapy further.
The study also found that red light exposure is linked to reduced inflammation and immune system activation, which may explain the lower clotting risk. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new medications or therapies.
Faculty and staff in the Department of Surgery that have contributed to this study include Mitchell R. Dyer, MD; Patricia A. Loughran, PhD; and Susan M. Shea, PhD.