Robust Neuroprotection with Noninvasive Near-Infrared Light: Translational Development of a Treatment for TBI
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury is divided into multiple phases. The primary injury phase of TBI is caused by mechanical stress applied to the tissue and causes irreversible damage. In contrast, secondary injury progresses over the following hours, providing an opportunity to save damaged tissue and reduce brain injury. We propose to apply a novel near infrared light (NIR) technology developed in the Sanderson and Huettemann laboratories, to target the cellular injury processes that occur during the secondary phase and reduce overall brain damage. This proposal addresses the focus areas of the FY22 CDMRP Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health Research Program, Translational Research Award. The goal of this proposal is to reduce the brain injury following TBI with NIR therapy. We have previously shown that this technology limits toxic oxidative damage in the brain following ischemic stroke and following cardiac arrest. This therapy also provides a reduction in brain injury in both brain injury pathologies. Here, we discovered that the application of the infrared light technology also limits the progression of brain injury following trauma. Importantly, this treatment is noninvasive and without side-effects, therefore it offers significant advantages to other potential therapeutic approaches for TBI. In this proposal we will accomplish several important steps that are necessary for this therapy to be used on humans in the future. We will use our large animal model of brain trauma to test the ability of NIR to reduce brain injury, a critical step before a new therapy can be transitioned into the clinic and tested on humans. We will also use our mouse traumatic brain injury model to conduct a detailed investigation of how NIR reduced brain injury. Finally, we will develop a human clinical device composed of a dual-laser system, a connector, and a durable helmet that deliver the NIR in the battlefield.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1225057
Entities
People
- Joseph Wider
- Thomas Sanderson
Organizations
- University of Michigan