Using narrow green light to calm migraine brain activity
Narrow Band Green Light Effects on Cortical Excitability and Responsivity in Migraine
['FUNDING_R01'] · BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11142571
This project looks at whether short exposure to narrow‑band green light can calm brain overactivity and ease symptoms for people with migraine.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11142571 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be part of a project that measures how the brain responds to narrow green light using a safe, noninvasive imaging method (fNIRS) in people with migraine and in healthy volunteers. The team will also use a rodent migraine model with direct brain recordings to study brain excitability and responses that can't be measured in people. By combining human imaging and animal electrophysiology, researchers aim to link symptom changes to specific brain activity patterns. The goal is to understand how green light might reduce headache intensity, frequency, and related symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults who experience recurrent migraine (with or without aura) and can attend brief clinic imaging sessions and controlled light exposures.
Not a fit: People who cannot tolerate light exposure (severe photophobia) or whose headaches are unrelated to light sensitivity may not experience benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could support a low‑risk, affordable light-based option to reduce migraine pain and symptom burden for some patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical reports suggest narrow green light can reduce migraine pain and frequency, but the underlying brain mechanisms remain largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BURSTEIN, RAMI — BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: BURSTEIN, RAMI
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 below.
Conditions: Animal Disease Models