More Than Energy: How Red Light Therapy Supports Fertility at Every Level
Warning - this is going to be a long article - but it’s length reflects just how much more there is to PBM than just ATP (that we are currently aware of)! Our knowledge is expanding every day as more and more studies are published. So when you see ATP being mentioned online you’ll know that there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes - a LOT more than ATP. This piece was written with a focus on fertility as it’s an area I am passionate about getting good information to more women, however 99% of the information will be relevant for any health challenge.
Yes learning about PBM/Red light therapy/photobiomodulation can feel like you’re learning a new language. There’s so many names just for the therapy itself but the scientists have finally agreed on photobiomodulation. This is a good article to start with that explains some of the language (don’t worry it’s short).
If you’re new to red light therapy everybody is talking about ATP and how light powers these ‘cellular batteries’. But new research shows that we even have different kinds of mitochondria and they aren't just batteries but processors in each cell. But there's sooooo much more that happens once our cells absorb that light. Think of a massive domino effect in the body - ATP is just the beginning.
Hold on tight - we’re diving in!
(Unless stated otherwise each of the studies cited used laser not LEDs).
At the time of this article, scientists agree that there are 3 core mechanisms triggered by PBM.
Mitochondrial Mechanism: Think of mitochondria as miniature power plants within your cells. When exposed to light (particularly red or near-infrared light), they produce more energy. This extra energy allows cells to function better, repair themselves, and remain healthy.
Extracellular TGF-beta Mechanism: TGF-beta is a protein that promotes healing and reduces inflammation. When light stimulates this process, it assists the body in controlling inflammation and supporting tissue repair outside of cells, making it ideal for recovery, regeneration and pain relief.
Cell Membrane Transporters (such as TRPV1): Consider cell membrane transporters to be like nightclub bouncers or ‘doormen’ on the cell's surface. These doormen allow certain molecules into and out of the cell. Some of these doormen are light-sensitive, particularly one called TRPV1, which functions as the cell's "pain detector." When the appropriate light shines on these doormen, it instructs the pain detector to "relax" and quiet down, which can help minimize the experience of pain. So, light treatment enables these doormen to perform their duties in a more pain-free way.
So these are the primary mechanisms and when they are activated by light - but they trigger multiple downstream effects that improve our health.
Nitric Oxide (NO): This molecule is produced in reaction to red light therapy, which aids in increasing blood flow and oxygenation in reproductive organs. Better circulation transports important nutrients to the ovaries, uterus, and surrounding tissues, creating an ideal environment for egg quality and implantation.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Modulation: ROS serve a dual role in cellular health, being beneficial in tiny amounts for messaging and repair but harmful when present in excess, resulting in oxidative stress and inflammation. Red light therapy regulates ROS levels, reduces inflammation, and protects reproductive cells from oxidative damage. One of the biggest barriers to fertility is oxidative stress and PBM significantly improves this.
Increase in (VEGF) Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), which helps grow new blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the follicle (the egg’s protective home).
MAPK Activation: (mitogen-activated protein kinase), which acts like a messenger inside the cells.
Anti-inflammatory Cytokines, which help keep inflammation under control. This anti-inflammatory effect is necessary for maintaining a healthy environment that promotes reproductive health and prepares the body for conception. You might remember hearing about pro-inflammatory cytokines during the pandemic. Red light increases the ‘good’ ones.
NF-kB Activation: This ‘Master’ transcription factor plays a central role in managing inflammation and immune responses. PBM modulates NF-kB, lowering inflammation in the reproductive system—a key factor for women dealing with fertility issues connected to chronic inflammation
Stem Cell Activation: Red light therapy activates tissue-resident stem cells, which are critical for tissue repair and regeneration. For fertility, this entails promoting cellular health in the ovaries, uterus, and other reproductive tissues, hence facilitating conception. (Studies show we can increase circulating stem cells in the body by over 300%).
Macrophages and Neutrophils: These immune cells are involved in tissue repair and inflammation control. Red light therapy enhances their function, aiding in tissue healing and reducing inflammation in reproductive tissues, especially beneficial for conditions like endometriosis.
Gut Microbes: The community of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms in your digestive system—plays a critical role in overall health, including fertility. A healthy gut microbiome supports nutrient absorption, hormone regulation, and immune balance.
Lymphocytes: These white blood cells contribute to a well-balanced immunological response, which is necessary for a healthy reproductive environment. Red light therapy provides a better regulated immune response by supporting lymphocyte function, potentially reducing immune-related interference in conception.
Endothelial cells line our blood arteries and are essential for proper blood circulation. Red light therapy enhances circulation to reproductive organs by activating endothelial cells, which can help with egg quality and implantation.
Fibroblasts are the cells that produce collagen and other structural components in connective tissue. Red light treatment activates fibroblasts, promoting tissue healing and collagen formation. In fertility, this can help to maintain the uterine lining's integrity, providing a better foundation for embryo implantation.
Osteoblasts: Although osteoblasts are largely responsible for bone health, they also contribute to general body strength and resilience. PBM therapy can boost osteoblast activity, which helps with bone health and overall wellness.
Collagen is a protein that gives shape and strength to the skin, tendons, and connective tissue. Red light therapy increases collagen formation, resulting in stronger, healthier tissues. This is notably beneficial for uterine health and general tissue repair in the reproductive system.
PGE2 (prostaglandin E2): This molecule controls inflammation and smooth muscle function. By reducing PGE2, red light treatment reduces inflammation and promotes relaxed uterine environment—ideal for conception.
SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) and CAT (Catalase): These antioxidants are required to manage oxidative stress. PBM protects reproductive cells by increasing SOD and CAT levels, which promotes long-term fertility health.
Axon Sprouting and Nerve Health: By encouraging axon sprouting, red light treatment promotes nerve health.
Serotonin and Dopamine: Red light treatment can improve levels of these "feel-good" neurotransmitters, lowering stress and improving mood—an important aspect in the often stressful path to parenthood when we’re faced with fertility difficulties.
This isn’t just impressive - it’s incredible what’s happening in the body - just from being exposed to specific wavelengths that are found for fee in sunlight and the profound effect it can have on us. And should get you thinking about how much your body is lacking when we’re indoors all day…
Light is medicine.
Tracy
