Using red light to improve blood flow in patients with peripheral artery disease
Red light mediated trafficking of microvesicles as a mechanism for vasodilation
This study is looking at how red light might help improve blood flow for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) by encouraging the release of a helpful substance from tiny particles in the body, and it could lead to a new, easy treatment that doesn't require surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Birmingham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862586 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how red light can stimulate the release of nitric oxide from microvesicles in the body, which may help improve blood flow in patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). The study aims to understand how this process works in both healthy individuals and those experiencing oxidative stress. By examining the effects of red light on blood vessels, the researchers hope to find a new, effective treatment for PAD that could reduce the need for invasive procedures. Patients may benefit from a non-invasive therapy that enhances blood circulation and alleviates symptoms associated with PAD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with peripheral artery disease who experience symptoms related to poor blood circulation.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to blood flow or those who do not have peripheral artery disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel, non-invasive treatment option for improving blood flow in patients with peripheral artery disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using light therapy for improving blood flow, suggesting that this approach may be effective for treating PAD.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- Birmingham VA Medical Center — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lohr, Nicole — Birmingham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lohr, Nicole
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.