Using far red light to enhance mobility in older adults with peripheral artery disease
Official title: Far Red Light to Improve Functioning in PAD: the LIGHT PAD Trial
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10770516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how far red light therapy might help older adults with peripheral artery disease (PAD) by improving blood flow and muscle function, which could make it easier for them to walk and stay active.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $207,772 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080426-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10770516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are diagnosed with peripheral artery disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have peripheral artery disease may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of far red light therapy on older adults suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that significantly impairs mobility. The approach involves applying far red light at a specific wavelength to stimulate the release of nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and muscle function. By enhancing the bioavailability of nitric oxide, the therapy aims to reduce oxidative stress and promote muscle repair, potentially leading to better walking ability and overall physical function for participants. The study builds on promising preliminary findings that suggest this non-invasive treatment could offer significant benefits for those affected by PAD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mobility and quality of life for older adults with peripheral artery disease.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that far red light therapy may effectively improve blood flow and muscle function in patients with PAD.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdermott, Mary Mcgrae — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcdermott, Mary Mcgrae
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.