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The Use of NASA Light-Emitting Diode Near-Infrared Technology for BiostimulationStudies on cells exposed to microgravity and hypergravity indicate that human cells need gravity to stimulate growth. As the gravitational force increases or decreases, the cell function responds in a linear fashion. This poses significant health risks for astronauts in long-term spaceflight. The application of light therapy with the use of NASA LEDs will significantly improve the medical care that is available to astronauts on long-term space missions. NASA LEDs stimulate the basic energy processes in the mitochondria (energy compartments) of each cell, particularly when near-infrared light is used to activate the color sensitive chemicals (chromophores, cytochrome systems) inside. Optimal LED wavelengths include 680, 730 and 880 nm and our laboratory has improved the healing of wounds in laboratory animals by using both NASA LED light and hyperbaric oxygen. Furthermore, DNA synthesis in fibroblasts and muscle cells has been quintupled using NASA LED light alone, in a single application combining 680, 730 and 880 nm each at 4 Joules per centimeter squared. Muscle and bone atrophy are well documented in astronauts, and various minor injuries occurring in space have been reported not to heal until landing on Earth. An LED blanket device may be used for the prevention of bone and muscle atrophy in astronauts. The depth of near-infrared light penetration into human tissue has been measured spectroscopically.
Document ID
20030001599
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Whelan, Harry T.
(Medical Coll. of Wisconsin Milwaukee, WI United States)
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 2002
Publication Information
Publication: Second International Conference on Near-Field Optical Analysis: Photodynamic Therapy and Photobiology Effects
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-01166
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-99015
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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