Method for suppressing neovascularization in retinal surface layer by photostimulation and device therefor

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide: a method for suppressing neovascularization in a retinal surface layer; and a device therefor.　The present invention suppresses neovascularization in a retinal surface layer of a subject by, for example, blinking, at a specific blinking frequency, light with a specific wavelength such as violet light and irradiating the subject with the light by using a light irradiation device.

Description

Method and device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer by light stimulation

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina by optical stimulation, in particular a method for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, and an apparatus therefor; more specifically, the present invention relates to a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina by optical stimulation using light in a specific wavelength range, such as violet light, irradiated at a constant light or a specific flashing frequency, in particular a method for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, and an apparatus therefor.

[0002] The effects of light on the human body have been studied from various perspectives in recent years, and new findings have been reported. For example, it has been reported that exposure to sunlight improves circadian rhythms, and that light emitted from LED lighting and LCD displays with LED backlighting has a significant impact on the body and mind. These reports suggest that exposure to blue light from liquid crystal display (LCD) screens before bedtime can alter endogenous rhythms and adversely affect sleep. Blue light is received by a photoreceptor called OPN4 and suppresses the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and delayed sleep onset. OPN5 is also a photoreceptor that receives violet light (VL). Although the effects of light on the body are gradually being elucidated, much remains unknown.

[0003] The present inventors have recently published some interesting reports on the effects of violet light on the eyes. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes that light in a specific wavelength range is effective in preventing and suppressing myopia, and great expectations are being placed on this as the number of myopic people continues to increase worldwide in recent years. It has also been confirmed that violet light increases blood flow in the choroid and brain.

[0004] There are currently no effective treatments for diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, such as retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and central retinal vein occlusion, and new treatment and prevention methods have been sought. The oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse, a model in which neovascularization is induced in the retina, is known to be a model for retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and central retinal vein occlusion.

[0005] WO2015 / 186723A1

[0006] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, and a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject.

[0007] The present inventors have discovered that irradiating a subject, for example, the subject's eye, with light in a specific wavelength range can inhibit neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, and in particular can treat or prevent a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, and have completed the present invention. That is, the present disclosure provides a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, and in particular a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, by irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range. Preferably, the present disclosure provides a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, and in particular a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, by irradiating the subject with violet light (VL) that is constant or flashes at a specific wavelength.

[0008] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling a light irradiation device to irradiate a subject with light in a specific wavelength range, thereby suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject. In some embodiments, the light irradiation device includes a light source capable of irradiating the subject with light in the specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit that controls the emission of light from the light source, for example, controlling the flashing frequency of the light source. The light irradiation device irradiates the subject with light in the specific wavelength range, suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a replaceable component that is incorporated into or attached to the device or instrument described above.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method or system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the above-described devices, instruments, or components.

[0011] That is, the present disclosure is as follows.

[0012] [Item 1] A method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, comprising irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range using a light irradiation device. [Item 2] The method of Item 1, wherein the light irradiation device comprises a light source capable of irradiating the subject with light in the specific wavelength range at constant light or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit for controlling the irradiation of light from the light source. [Item 3] The method of Item 1, wherein the light is violet light. [Item 4] The method of Item 1, wherein the specific wavelength range includes 360 to 400 nm. [Item 5] The method of Item 1, wherein the specific wavelength range includes approximately 380 nm. [Item 6] The method of Item 1, wherein the light is irradiated at constant light or flashes at a specific flashing frequency. [Item 7] The method of Item 6, wherein the flashing frequency is 30 to 150 Hz. [Item 8] The method of Item 6, wherein the flashing frequency is 35 to 60 Hz. [Item 9] The method of Item 6, wherein the flashing frequency is 40 Hz. [Item 10] The method according to Item 1, characterized in that the light is irradiated during the day. [Item 11] The method according to Item 1, characterized in that the light is irradiated for one hour or more. [Item 12] The light is irradiated so that the irradiance of the light striking the eye of the subject is 0.5 to 5000 μW / cm ２[Item 13] The method according to Item 1, wherein the light irradiation device is light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or nearby light source, a portable light source, a room light, a desk lamp, or an incubator with a light source. [Item 14] A device for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range. [Item 15] The device according to Item 14, comprising a light source that irradiates light in the specific wavelength range, the light source being a light source that irradiates light in the specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency. [Item 16] The device according to Item 14, further comprising a control unit that controls the light emission. [Item 17] The device according to Item 16, wherein the control unit changes and executes irradiation conditions selected from the flashing frequency of the specific wavelength range, irradiance, irradiation time, irradiation start time, and irradiation end time by transmitting and receiving information to and from an isolated controller such as a mobile terminal. [Item 18] The device of Item 14, comprising a light source that irradiates light in the specific wavelength range and a drive circuit that drives the light source. [Item 19] The device of Item 18, wherein the drive circuit includes: at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing instructions executable by the processor. [Item 20] The device of Item 14, wherein the light is violet light. [Item 21] The device of Item 14, wherein the specific wavelength range comprises 360 to 400 nm. [Item 22] The device of Item 14, wherein the specific wavelength range comprises approximately 380 nm. [Item 23] The device of Item 14, wherein the flashing frequency is 30 to 150 Hz. [Item 24] The device of Item 14, wherein the flashing frequency is 35 to 60 Hz. [Item 25] The device of Item 14, wherein the flashing frequency is 40 Hz. [Item 26] The device of Item 14, wherein the light is irradiated during the day. [Item 27] ​​The device according to Item 14, characterized in that the light is irradiated for one hour or more. [Item 28] The light is irradiated so that the irradiance of the light incident on the subject's eye is 0.5 to 5000 μW / cm ２[Item 29] The device according to Item 14, wherein the light is irradiated for one hour or more. [Item 30] The device according to Item 14, wherein the device is light-equipped eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a tabletop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a light source installed in front of or near the face, a portable light source, room lighting, a tabletop lamp, or an incubator with a light source. [Item 31] The device according to Item 14, wherein light in another wavelength range, sound, vibration, magnetic field, or electric field is also applied in addition to the irradiation of light in the specific wavelength range. [Item 32] A non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, can perform the following steps for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject: for an apparatus comprising a light source capable of irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific blinking frequency, and a control unit that controls the blinking frequency of the light source, the control unit operating the apparatus to control the blinking frequency of the light source to 0 Hz or in a range of 30 to 150 Hz, and the light source operating the apparatus to irradiate the subject with light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm. [Item 33] An apparatus for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, comprising glass, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses that transmit violet light. [Item 34] A replaceable part that is built into or attached to the apparatus according to Item 14. [Item 35] A replaceable part that is built into or attached to the apparatus according to Item 33. [Item 36] A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device according to Item 14. [Item 37] A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the appliance according to Item 33. [Item 38] A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the part according to Item 34 or 35. [Item 39] A method for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device according to Item 14. [Item 40] A method for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the appliance according to Item 33. [Item 41] A method for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the part according to Item 34 or 35.

[0013] 5 is an example of violet light glasses that emit violet light. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 7 is a light spectrum of an LED with a peak wavelength of 375 nm. 8 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a biological function control device according to the present invention. 9 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 10 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a biological function control device according to the present invention. 11 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 12 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 13 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 14 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 15 is a graph showing the relationship between the spectral irradiance and wavelength of violet fluorescent light. 2 The results are from 1.5 hours of irradiation with violet light at an irradiance of 400, 100, or 50 μW / cm. Statistical analysis of Figure 5 was performed using the Mann-Whitney test. Figure 6 shows an image of the control group irradiated with WL only. Figure 7 shows an image of the group irradiated with VL (violet light) in addition to WL. Figure 8 shows an image of the control group irradiated with WL at an irradiance of 400, 100, or 50 μW / cm. 2 Figure 9 shows the results of irradiating the specimen with violet light for 3 hours at an irradiance of 100 μW / cm. 2 The results are from 1.5 hours of irradiation with violet light at an irradiance of 1.5 hours. Statistical analysis of Figure 9 was performed using the Mann-Whitney test, and the results are shown as mean values ​​with SEM.

[0014] Inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject according to the present disclosure includes, for example, treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, such as retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and central retinal vein occlusion.

[0015] Subjects for which neovascularization in the superficial retina can be inhibited, particularly for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, according to the present disclosure, include animals, such as mammals. Mammals include, for example, dogs, cats, cows, pigs, sheep, goats, monkeys, rabbits, horses, guinea pigs, hamsters, and primates. Primates include lemurs, long-tailed monkeys, baboons, apes, and humans.

[0016] The subject of the present disclosure for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina, particularly for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, is an animal that receives light as a stimulus in the eye. Examples of compounds that receive light as a stimulus in the eye include proteins, such as neuropsin (Opn5).

[0017] The subject of the present disclosure for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina, particularly for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, is, but is not limited to, a domestic animal kept indoors. Because domestic animals kept indoors rarely benefit from the effects of violet light based on natural light, intentional irradiation with violet light is particularly effective in suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina, particularly in treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina.

[0018] Subjects for whom neovascularization in the superficial retina is inhibited, particularly for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina, according to the present disclosure, include, for example, subjects diagnosed as needing to inhibit neovascularization in the superficial retina at present or in the future, and particularly include subjects diagnosed as suffering from a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina, as well as subjects diagnosed as likely to suffer from a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina in the future. That is, subjects for whom neovascularization in the superficial retina is inhibited, particularly for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina, include, for example, subjects diagnosed as suffering from retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, or central retinal vein occlusion, as well as subjects diagnosed as likely to suffer from retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, or central retinal vein occlusion in the future. Here, a subject diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity includes, but is not limited to, a premature infant with retinopathy of prematurity, and a subject diagnosed as having the potential to develop retinopathy of prematurity in the future includes, but is not limited to, a premature infant, and also includes, but is not limited to, a premature infant in a high-risk group for retinopathy of prematurity, such as a premature infant or a low birth weight infant.

[0019] In some embodiments, the light irradiation device includes a light source capable of irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit that controls the irradiation of the light source.

[0020] In some embodiments, the light used is violet light.

[0021] In some embodiments, the specific wavelength range used includes 360-400 nm, and in particular about 380 nm.

[0022] In some embodiments, the flashing frequency used may be 0 Hz or 30-150 Hz, more particularly 30-70 Hz, especially 0 Hz or 35-60 Hz, and more particularly, for example, 0 Hz or about 40 Hz.

[0023] In some embodiments, the irradiation conditions further include the irradiation time of the light source, specifically, irradiation for one hour or more.

[0024] In some embodiments, the light is administered to a subject such that the irradiance of the light impinging on the subject's eye is between 0.5 and 1000 μW / cm ２ Irradiate so that the radiation intensity is within the range of

[0025] In some embodiments, the light source may be light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or nearby light source, a portable light source, a room light, a desktop lamp, an incubator with a light source, or a rearing machine with a light source. Examples of the light source include light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or nearby light source, a portable light source, a desktop lamp, and an incubator with a light source. Examples of the light source include light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or nearby light source, and an incubator with a light source. Examples of the light source include light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop ... and an incubator with a light source. Examples of the light source include light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, and an incubator with a light source. Examples of the incubator are, for example, equipment that contributes to the care and management of infants, particularly premature infants, and preferably include an enclosed space for maintaining a constant temperature and humidity, and facilities for providing medical care. A breeding machine is, for example, equipment that contributes to breeding, and examples include devices for securing breeding areas such as cages and aquariums, as well as instruments for securing breeding areas such as leads, collars, harnesses, and other devices.

[0026] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating a subject with light of a specific wavelength or a specific wavelength range, particularly an apparatus for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly an apparatus for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, the apparatus comprising at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source, wherein the light emitted by the light source is light of a specific wavelength range that, when irradiated onto the subject, produces an effect of suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly an effect of treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0027] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus having at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source, wherein the light emitted by the light source is irradiated onto a subject to suppress neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly to treat or prevent a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0028] In some aspects, the devices of the present disclosure include a driver circuit that includes at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing instructions executable by the processor.

[0029] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of operating a device according to the present disclosure, the device including a light source that irradiates a target with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit that controls the flashing frequency of the light source, the method including a step in which the control unit controls the flashing frequency of the light source to 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically, in a range of 30 to 75 Hz, and a step in which the light source irradiates the target with light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm.

[0030] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a computer program that causes an apparatus including a light source that irradiates a target with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit that controls the flashing frequency of the light source, to execute an operating method according to the present disclosure.

[0031] In the method and apparatus according to the present disclosure, the light is, for example, violet light. According to this invention, violet light can be irradiated onto a target, so that it can affect the target without causing flicker or glare like white light. Note that violet light has a wavelength of 360 to 400 nm, and this wavelength light has a lower relative luminosity factor than white light, and is considered to be a wavelength range that does not or is unlikely to cause discomfort to the target. Furthermore, in the method and apparatus according to the present disclosure, it is preferable to irradiate the light during the daytime.

[0032] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, light in a wavelength range of 350 to 400 nm may be used, for example, light in any of the wavelength ranges of 350 nm, 360 nm, 370 nm, 380 nm, 390 nm, or 400 nm, or light in any wavelength range included in a range defined by any of the above wavelengths (e.g., the range of 370 to 390 nm). In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the wavelength includes approximately 380 nm. Note that the term "about" used herein means that the value modified by this term includes values ​​within 5% of the value. Note that light in a specific wavelength range may have a peak wavelength included in the specific range, but this is not required.

[0033] In the method and apparatus of the present disclosure, the illumination state of the light is constant (i.e., 0 Hz) or a flashing frequency of greater than 0 Hz to 150 Hz.

[0034] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a steady light (0 Hz) or a light with a flashing frequency in the range of 30-150 Hz, more specifically, 30-75 Hz, for example, any of 30 Hz, 35 Hz, 40 Hz, 45 Hz, 50 Hz, 55 Hz, 60 Hz, 65 Hz, 70 Hz, or 75 Hz, or any flashing frequency within the range defined by any of the above flashing frequencies (e.g., the range of 35-45 Hz), may be used. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the flashing frequency is about 40 Hz.

[0035] In the method and apparatus according to the present disclosure, the light may be irradiated to a subject's eye such that the irradiance of the light incident on the subject's eye is 0.1 μW / cm ２ (0.001 W / m ２ )~5000μW / cm ２ (50W / m ２ ) in the range of 0.5 μW / cm ２ (0.005 W / m ２ )~5000μW / cm ２ (50W / m ２ ) or 0.5 μW / cm ２ (0.005 W / m ２ )~1000μW / cm ２ (10 W / m ２ The irradiance of the light incident on the subject's eye can be within the range of 10 μW / cm ２ ~1000 μW / cm ２ According to some embodiments, it is believed that violet light or the like can be irradiated within the above irradiance range to affect an object. It has generally been confirmed that violet light can cause characteristic phenomena even when it is a particularly small amount of weak light (light with low photosensitivity).

[0036] In the method and device according to the present disclosure, the control unit of the device can change and execute irradiation conditions such as the irradiation state (including constant light or flashing frequency), irradiance, irradiation time, irradiation start time, irradiation end time, constant light or flashing frequency of the light, etc., by transmitting and receiving information to and from an isolated controller such as a mobile terminal. According to some embodiments, the above-mentioned various irradiation conditions are controlled in isolation, so that the desired effect of inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject can be achieved by arbitrarily setting irradiation conditions suitable for producing a therapeutic or preventive effect for a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject.

[0037] In the methods and devices disclosed herein, the light source may be a light source installed in front of or near the face, such as light-emitting glasses (see, for example, FIG. 1 ), a spectacle frame or goggles, a tabletop light source, a light source attached to a mobile terminal, etc. According to some embodiments, it is believed that specific light can be emitted from a light source installed in front of or near the face, such as light-emitting glasses, a spectacle frame, or goggles, which are easy to wear and comfortable to wear on a daily basis, and therefore are highly practical and can be constantly irradiated in a variety of situations and environments.

[0038] In the methods and devices disclosed herein, the light source may be a non-stationary light source, such as a portable light source, or a stationary light source, such as a room lamp, a desk lamp, a dedicated device, or an incubator with a light source. According to some embodiments, the device may have various light source forms depending on the environment in which it is used. For example, the light source may be used in combination with glass, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses that transmit violet light. Alternatively, sunlight that has passed through glass, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses that transmit violet light may be used as the light source.

[0039] The method using light stimulation according to the present disclosure is a method for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, in particular a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, characterized in that the light emission is controlled to suppress neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject that has received the light, in particular the light emission is controlled to treat or prevent a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject that has received the light.

[0040] The device disclosed herein is a device for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating the subject with constant violet light, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, and is characterized by comprising a light source that emits the violet light, and an emission time control unit that irradiates the violet light for a specific time or for a specific period of time.

[0041] The present disclosure includes replaceable components built into or attached to a device or instrument. For example, it is preferable that the device or instrument of the present disclosure maintain a consistent quality so as to effectively inhibit neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly to effectively treat or prevent diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. From the perspective of maintaining this quality, it is preferable to replace necessary components, preferably periodically. Examples of such components include a light source, a control unit that controls the emission of light, peripheral devices, and batteries. More specifically, examples of components include components whose performance or function deteriorates over time, such as an LED element as a light source, a control circuit, a memory, and a lithium secondary battery as a battery.

[0042] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes a maintenance method or system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining a device, instrument, or replaceable part. As described above, it is preferable that the device or instrument of the present disclosure always maintain a consistent quality so as to effectively suppress neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly so as to effectively treat or prevent diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. Therefore, it is preferable to perform maintenance (checking the device or instrument), part replacement, or repair on the device or instrument, preferably periodic maintenance (checking the device or instrument), part replacement, or periodic repair. The present disclosure also includes a method or system for performing such maintenance, part replacement, or repair, preferably periodic maintenance, part replacement, or repair. Such a method can include, for example, a method in which a sensor for sensing the status of each part is installed in the device or instrument, and the maintenance, part replacement, or repair is performed based on the measurement results of the sensor.

[0043] Furthermore, as will be described below with reference to the drawings, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, an apparatus for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly an apparatus for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, a method for operating the apparatus, and a computer program for executing the operating method.

[0044] The present disclosure relates to a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, a method for operating the device, and a computer program for executing the method, which will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the contents of the following embodiments and examples, and includes various modifications and applications within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0045] [Method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease causing neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer in a subject] A method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease causing neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer in a subject, according to the present disclosure, is characterized in that it comprises irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range. In the method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease causing neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer in a subject, according to the present disclosure, the subject, the inhibition of neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject, and the treatment or prevention of a disease causing neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer are as described above.

[0046] In some embodiments of the methods according to the present disclosure, the light used may be violet light. Also, in some embodiments of the methods according to the present disclosure, specific wavelengths used may include 360 ​​to 400 nm, and particularly approximately 380 nm. The flashing frequency may be, for example, 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically 30 to 70 Hz, and particularly 0 Hz or 35 to 60 Hz. The flashing frequency may particularly be 0 Hz or approximately 40 Hz. The illumination conditions may further include the duration of illumination of the light source. The light source may be, but is not limited to, light-equipped eyeglasses, eyeglass frames, or goggles; a desk light source, such as a desk lamp, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or near-face light source, a portable light source, a room light, a wall light, a ceiling light, a desk lamp, or an incubator with a light source.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the specific time for which light is applied can be any time in a range of 10 seconds to 24 hours per day, for example, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8 hours, 9 hours, 10 hours, 11 hours, 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, or any time within a range defined by any of the above times (e.g., a range of 1 to 12 hours). The specific period for which light irradiation is continued may be, for example, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 7 months, 8 months, 9 months, 10 months, 11 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, 5 years, 6 years, 7 years, 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, or more, or any period included in a range defined by any of the above periods (e.g., a range of 1 week to 1 year). The total time for which light irradiation is continued during a specific period of time may be, for example, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8 hours, 9 hours, 10 hours, 11 hours, 12 hours, 18 hours, 24 hours, 50 hours, 100 hours, 200 hours, 300 hours, 400 hours, 500 hours, 600 hours, 700 hours, 800 hours, 900 hours, 1,000 hours, 5,000 hours, 10,000 hours, or 100,000 hours, or any time included in a range defined by any of the above times (e.g., a range of 100 to 300 hours).

[0048] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, in addition to irradiating the light in the specific wavelength range, irradiation with light from a fluorescent lamp or the like may be performed. The color temperature of the light irradiated by the fluorescent lamp or the like is, for example, 2600 to 7100 Kelvin, such as 4600 to 5500 Kelvin. The time period during which irradiation with light from the fluorescent lamp or the like is performed is, for example, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, or 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The time period during which irradiation with light from the fluorescent lamp or the like is performed is, for example, 9 to 15 hours, 10 to 14 hours, or 11 to 13 hours per day. The time period during which both the light in the specific wavelength range and the light from the fluorescent lamp or the like are irradiated is, for example, 1 to 5 hours, or 2 to 4 hours per day. For each day, irradiation with light from the fluorescent lamp or the like may be performed before irradiating the light in the specific wavelength range per day. The duration of light irradiation by a fluorescent lamp or the like before irradiation with light in the specific wavelength range per day is, for example, 6 to 12 hours, 7 to 11 hours, or 8 to 10 hours per day. For each day, light irradiation by a fluorescent lamp or the like may be performed after completion of irradiation with light in the specific wavelength range per day, but does not have to be performed after completion of irradiation with light in the specific wavelength range per day. The duration of light irradiation by a fluorescent lamp or the like after completion of irradiation with light in the specific wavelength range per day is, for example, 0 minutes to 1 hour, 0 minutes to 30 minutes, or 0 minutes to 15 minutes per day.

[0049] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a method for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, the method comprising controlling a light irradiation device to irradiate the subject with light in a specific wavelength range, thereby inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject. In some embodiments, the light irradiation device is capable of irradiating violet light. In addition, in some embodiments, the light irradiation device is capable of irradiating light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm, particularly light in a wavelength range of approximately 380 nm. The blinking frequency of the light irradiation device may be controllable, for example, to 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically, 30 to 70 Hz, particularly 0 Hz or 35 to 60 Hz, and the blinking frequency may be particularly 0 Hz or approximately 40 Hz. The light irradiation device may also be capable of controlling the irradiation time. The light source may take the form of, but is not limited to, lighted eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a tabletop light source, a mobile device mounted light source, a face-mounted or near-face mounted light source, a portable light source, a room light, a table lamp, or a lighted incubator.

[0050] [Device] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by light stimulation, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. In some embodiments, a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, according to the present disclosure, may include at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source. Here, the light emitted by the light source is light in a specific wavelength range that, when irradiated onto a subject, has an effect of inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly an effect of treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0051] In this specification, devices for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject using optical stimulation, particularly devices for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, may be collectively referred to as "biofunction control devices" or simply "devices."

[0052] In some embodiments, the device according to the present disclosure is, as described above, a device for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by irradiating a subject with violet light at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, particularly a device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, and is characterized in that it comprises a light source that emits the violet light, an emission cycle control unit that sets the violet light to a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and an emission time control unit that irradiates the violet light for a specific time or for a specific period of time, and is used to suppress neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly a device used to treat or prevent a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0053] In addition, in some embodiments, the device according to the present disclosure is a device that irradiates a subject with constant violet light to suppress neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly a device that treats or prevents a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, and is characterized by comprising a light source that emits the violet light and an emission time control unit that irradiates the violet light for a specific time or for a specific period of time.

[0054] In addition, in some embodiments, the device according to the present disclosure relates to a device used to suppress neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly a device used to treat or prevent diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of a subject by optical stimulation, which device has at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source, and the light emitted by the light source is light in a specific wavelength range that, when irradiated onto a subject, has the effect of suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of the subject, particularly a device used to treat or prevent diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retinal layer of the subject by optical stimulation. Thus, one aspect of the present disclosure relates to a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly a device for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, comprising at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source, the drive circuit including at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing instructions executable by the processor, wherein the light source is configured to emit light in a specific wavelength range that, when irradiated onto the subject, has an effect of inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly a therapeutic or preventative effect for diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject. Furthermore, one aspect of the present disclosure relates to a device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, particularly a device for treating or preventing diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject by optical stimulation, the device comprising at least one light source that emits light and a drive circuit that drives the light source, the drive circuit including at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing instructions executable by the processor, wherein the light source is configured to emit light in a specific wavelength range that, when irradiated onto the subject, has an effect of inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject, particularly a therapeutic or preventative effect for diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina of the subject.

[0055] (Light Source) The wavelength of light emitted by the light source is not particularly limited, but in some embodiments, violet light defined as 360 to 400 nm is used.

[0056] A light source capable of flashing at a frequency between 0 (normal light) and 150 Hz is preferably used. The frequency can be adjusted in 0.5 Hz or 1 Hz increments by setting the control unit, making it possible to generate light with any flashing frequency. Increasing the flashing frequency has the advantage that, although this will vary from person to person, the flashing may become less noticeable.

[0057] The irradiance of the light from the light source onto the subject's eye may be variable or constant. In some embodiments, the maximum output is 310 μW / cm ２ For example, 0.1 μW / cm ２ (0.001 W / m ２ )~5000μW / cm ２ (50W / m ２ ) or, for example, 1 μW / cm ２ (0.01 W / m ２ )~1000μW / cm ２ (10 W / m ２ ) or, for example, 0.5 μW / cm ２ (0.005 W / m ２ ) ~ 500 μW / cm ２ (5 W / m ２ ) and 0.5 to 1000 μW / cm ２ The irradiance of the light from the light source onto the subject's eye can be set to, for example, 10 μW / cm ２ ~1000 μW / cm ２ , or 30 μW / cm ２ ~600 μW / cm ２ Furthermore, light sources with such irradiance can be easily applied to eyeglasses, eyeglass frames, goggles, and other portable irradiation devices. It has been confirmed that even a small amount of weak light (light with low photosensitivity) produces characteristic phenomena, and effects on various parts of the subject and cell activity (this term also includes gene expression control) can be expected.

[0058] The light may be specified by the relative luminous efficiency. Since the features of the present invention can be realized even with a low relative luminous efficiency, it is possible to perform flashing irradiation of violet light that stimulates the subject under a low relative luminous efficiency, and it is believed that the desired area can be stimulated without burdening the subject.

[0059] The light irradiation time is preferably set arbitrarily depending on the purpose, and may be short or long. The light can be intermittent (regular or irregular intervals) or continuous. Considering the high possibility that violet light affects circadian rhythms, the light irradiation time can be set, for example, between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM, between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, or between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The period can be at least 10 minutes, at least 15 minutes, at least 20 minutes, at least 30 minutes, at least 1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 3 hours, at least 4 hours, or 5 hours, and the period can be 5 hours or less, 4 hours or less, or 3 hours or less. In some embodiments, irradiation is applied for 1 to 3 hours between 6:00 AM and noon, between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM, or between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. A timer function can be used for irradiation set for such a time. In this specification, irradiating light for a predetermined period of time is intended to include not only continuous irradiation of light for the predetermined period of time, but also, in the case where light is irradiated intermittently, the total time for which the light is irradiated intermittently is the predetermined period of time. However, in the case where the light has a blinking frequency of 150 Hz or the like, the period of no irradiation as a blinking cycle is considered to be the period of time during which light was irradiated.

[0060] The light source may be eyeglasses, eyeglass frames, or goggles with a light source. Such eyeglasses, eyeglass frames, or goggles are easy to wear and comfortable, and have a light source that emits a flashing frequency attached to them, making them highly practical and allowing them to be worn at all times. The light source may be a light source installed in front of or near the face, such as a desktop light source or a light source attached to a mobile terminal, or a non-installed light source, such as a portable light source, or a fixed light source, such as a room light, a desktop lamp, or a dedicated device, or an incubator with a light source. Various light source forms can be used depending on the environment in which the light source is used.

[0061] (Controller) The controller is a part that controls the illumination state of the light from the light source (constant light or flashing frequency). The controller may be equipped with a power source for supplying power to the light source, and such a power source may be a battery, or may be a power source that is connected to a battery installed in another location via a cable. Furthermore, if the controller is not movable in one place, it may be configured to be connected to a household power source or the like.

[0062] The control unit preferably changes the irradiation conditions, such as the flashing frequency of the light, irradiance, irradiation time, irradiation start time, irradiation end time, and flashing frequency, by transmitting and receiving information to and from an isolated controller such as a mobile terminal. Such a control unit controls the various irradiation conditions described above in isolation, and therefore can arbitrarily set irradiation conditions suitable for suppressing neovascularization in the superficial retina of a desired subject, and particularly for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a desired subject, thereby achieving the desired effect.

[0063] Furthermore, the control unit may have a light source controller or timer function. Examples of the controller include functions to vary the frequency and irradiance, and to set the irradiation time. Examples of the timer function include a function to set the irradiance time of the light. Such a controller or timer function may be provided integrally with the device or may be a separate component.

[0064] FIG. 4 shows a simplified block diagram of one example of a device according to the present disclosure that can be used to inhibit neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. The device shown in FIG. 4 may include various functions of the device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject using optical stimulation, particularly the device for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject using optical stimulation (these can be referred to as "biological function control devices"). Accordingly, all of the devices described herein can be represented by the block diagram in FIG. 4. The biological function control device may include a light source 10 and a control unit 20. The light source 10 emits light in a specific wavelength range. The wavelength of the light emitted by the light source 10 preferably includes the VL described above or 360 to 400 nm, and more preferably includes 380 nm. The light source 10 may be any light source, and a light-emitting diode (LED) is preferably used from the viewpoints of compact size, long life, ease of on / off control, etc. (See FIG. 2 for an example of the spectrum of a purple fluorescent lamp, and FIG. 3 for an example of the spectrum of a purple LED.) The number of light sources 10 may be one or more depending on the desired irradiance, irradiation range, etc.

[0065] The control unit 20 is connected to the light source 10 by wire or wirelessly and is configured to control the illumination conditions of the light source 10. The illumination conditions can include at least one of the blinking frequency and illumination time of the light source 10, and therefore the control unit 20 can include at least one of a blinking frequency control unit 20a and an illumination time control unit 20b. The blinking frequency is preferably 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically, 30 to 75 Hz, more preferably 0 Hz or 35 to 45 Hz, and particularly preferably 0 Hz or 40 Hz. Note that a blinking frequency of 0 Hz means constant illumination. The illumination time can be set arbitrarily, for example, within a range of 10 seconds to 24 hours per day, and the specific period of continuous illumination can also be set arbitrarily, for example, from one day to several years or longer.

[0066] The control unit 20 may include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and executes processing to control the irradiation conditions of the light source 10. The processing performed by the control unit 20 may be implemented by a computer program or by hardware using logic circuits. The computer program may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium storing the computer program may be a non-transitory recording medium. The non-transitory recording medium is not particularly limited and may be, for example, a memory card, a CD-ROM, or other recording medium. The computer program stored in the recording medium can be installed in the computer unit via an appropriate reader. Examples of the appropriate reader include a card reader if the recording medium is a memory card, and a CD drive if the recording medium is a CD-ROM. Alternatively, the computer program may be downloaded to the computer unit from an external server via a communication network.

[0067] In an apparatus according to the present disclosure, the drive circuitry may include at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing instructions executable by the processor.

[0068] 4 may be light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desktop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a light source installed in front of or near the face, a portable light source, a room light, a desk lamp, or an incubator with a light source. The biological function control device may also be provided as a light-emitting product, including eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a desk lamp, a mobile terminal, a mobile terminal case, a head-mounted item (such as a hat or earphone headphones), a portable light, a room light, a desk lamp, or an incubator with a light source, to which at least the light source 10 out of the light source 10 and the control unit 20 is attached.

[0069] As described above, the biological function control device using optical stimulation according to the present disclosure can suppress neovascularization in the surface layer of the retina of a subject, and in particular, can treat or prevent diseases that cause neovascularization in the surface layer of the retina of a subject, by irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range, such as violet light, either at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency.

[0070] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a biological function control device using light stimulation. Accordingly, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for operating a device used to control biological functions, i.e., inhibit neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly a method for operating a device used to treat or prevent a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, the method comprising: a light source that irradiates the subject with light in a specific wavelength range, either at constant light or at a specific flashing frequency; and a controller that controls the flashing frequency of the light source; and the device irradiates the subject with light in the specific wavelength range, either at constant light or at the specific flashing frequency. Here, the flashing frequency of the light source may be controlled to 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically, within a range of 30 to 75 Hz, and the light source may irradiate the subject with light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm. Additionally, one aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program that causes a device including a light source that irradiates the subject with light in a specific wavelength range, either at constant light or at a specific flashing frequency, and a controller that controls the flashing frequency of the light source, to execute the above-described method.

[0071] A computer program according to the present disclosure may have instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. When the instructions are executed by a processor, the computer program according to the present disclosure can perform predetermined steps. Thus, one aspect of the present disclosure also relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by a processor, can cause a device including a light source that irradiates a target with light in a specific wavelength range at constant light or at a specific blinking frequency, and a controller that controls the blinking frequency of the light source, to operate the device such that the controller controls the blinking frequency of the light source to 0 Hz or 30 to 150 Hz, more specifically, in the range of 30 to 75 Hz, and to operate the device so that the light source irradiates the target with light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm.

[0072] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention relates to an instrument for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject using light stimulation, particularly an instrument for treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject using light stimulation, which may include glass, eyeglass lenses, or contact lenses that transmit violet light. Use of such an instrument can have a favorable effect on the subject, such as inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject. Use of such an instrument can enable inhibition of neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, particularly treating or preventing a disease that causes neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject.

[0073] [Components] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention relates to replaceable components that are built into or attached to the device or instrument described above. Examples of components include a light source, a control unit that controls light emission, peripheral devices, and a battery.

[0074] [Method or System for Replacement, Repair, or Maintenance] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention relates to a method or system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the above-mentioned device, instrument, or component.

[0075] Methods: Neonatal mice (C57BL / 6J) were housed in a hyperoxic chamber (85% O2) from 8 to 11 days after birth, and then returned to a normoxic environment (20% O2) to generate oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mice, a model of retinal neovascularization. OIR mice are known to be models of retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and central retinal vein occlusion.

[0076] Between 12 and 16 days after birth, pups were exposed to violet light (wavelength range: 360-400 nm; irradiance: 50 μW / cm 2 , 100 μW / cm 2 , or 400 μW / cm 2 The mice were exposed to constant light (1.5 or 3 hours of light per day) and their eyes were enucleated on postnatal day 17. The retinal tissues were then stained according to a specific staining protocol, and the extent of neovascularization (NV) and avascular areas was measured using a light microscope and image analysis software, and compared to mice exposed to normal light.

[0077] Results: The results are shown in Figures 5 to 9. Figure 5 shows the results at 50 μW / cm 2 The results are from 1.5 hours of irradiation with violet light at an irradiance of 400, 100, or 50 μW / cm. In Figure 5, NV indicates neovascularization. Statistical analysis of Figure 5 was performed using the Mann-Whitney test. The proportion of NV area was significantly smaller when VL was irradiated in addition to WL compared to WL alone. Figure 6 shows an image of the control group irradiated with WL alone, and Figure 7 shows an image of the group irradiated with VL (violet light) in addition to WL. The white-stained areas in the images of Figures 6 and 7 are NV. The proportion of NV area was smaller when VL was irradiated in addition to WL compared to WL alone. Figure 8 shows images of the control group irradiated with WL alone at 400, 100, or 50 μW / cm. 2The results are from 3 hours of irradiation with violet light at an irradiance of 100 μW / cm. At all irradiances, the range of NV was significantly smaller when WL and VL were irradiated compared to WL alone. Figure 9 shows the results for 100 μW / cm. 2 The results are from 1.5 hours of irradiation with violet light at an irradiance of 100 μW / cm. Statistical analysis of Figure 9 was performed using the Mann-Whitney test, and the results are shown as mean values ​​with SEM. 2 Even when exposed to violet light with an irradiance of 1.5 hours, the range of NV was significantly smaller when WL and VL were irradiated than when WL alone.

[0078] As shown in Figures 5 to 9, it has been revealed that irradiation with violet light can suppress angiogenesis in the superficial retina and can treat diseases that cause neovascularization in the superficial retina, such as retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, and central retinal vein occlusion.

Claims

1. A method for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, comprising irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range using a light irradiation device.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the light irradiation device comprises a light source capable of irradiating a target with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific flashing frequency, and a control unit that controls the irradiation of light from the light source.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is violet light.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific wavelength range includes 360 to 400 nm.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the specific wavelength range comprises approximately 380 nm.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is illuminated with a constant light or flashes at a specific flashing frequency.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the flashing frequency is between 30 and 150 Hz.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the flashing frequency is 35 to 60 Hz.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein the flashing frequency is 40 Hz.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is applied during the day.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is applied for at least one hour.

12. The light is applied so that the irradiance of the light incident on the subject's eye is 0.5 to 5000 μW / cm ２ The method of claim 1, wherein the irradiation is performed so that the radiation intensity is within the range of 1000 nm to 1000 nm.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the light irradiation device is light-emitting eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a tabletop light source, a mobile terminal-mounted light source, a face-mounted or near-face light source, a portable light source, a room light, a table lamp, or a light-emitting incubator.

14. A device for suppressing neovascularization in the surface layer of the retina of a subject by irradiating the subject with light in a specific wavelength range.

15. The device according to claim 14, further comprising a light source that irradiates light in the specific wavelength range, the light source being a light source that irradiates light in the specific wavelength range in a constant state or at a specific flickering frequency.

16. The device according to claim 14, further comprising a control unit for controlling the emission of light.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the control unit changes and executes irradiation conditions selected from the blinking frequency of the specific wavelength range, irradiance, irradiation time, irradiation start time, and irradiation end time by transmitting and receiving information to and from an isolated controller such as a mobile terminal.

18. The device according to claim 14, further comprising a light source that emits light in the specific wavelength range, and a drive circuit that drives the light source.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the drive circuitry includes: at least one processor communicatively connected to the light source and at least one memory, and at least one memory for storing processor-executable instructions.

20. The device of claim 14, wherein the light is violet light.

21. The device of claim 14, wherein the specific wavelength range includes 360 to 400 nm.

22. The device of claim 14, wherein the specific wavelength range includes approximately 380 nm.

23. The device of claim 14, wherein the flashing frequency is between 30 and 150 Hz.

24. The device of claim 14, wherein the flashing frequency is between 35 and 60 Hz.

25. The device of claim 14, wherein the flashing frequency is 40 Hz.

26. The device according to claim 14, wherein the light is emitted during the day.

27. The device according to claim 14, wherein the light is applied for one hour or more.

28. The light is applied so that the irradiance of the light incident on the subject's eye is 0.5 to 5000 μW / cm ２ 15. The device of claim 14, wherein the radiation is irradiated so as to be in the range of 29. The device according to claim 14, wherein the light is applied for one hour or more.

30. The device of claim 14, wherein the device is lighted eyeglasses, eyeglass frames or goggles, a tabletop light source, a mobile device mounted light source, a face-mounted or near-face mounted light source, a portable light source, a room light, a desk lamp, or a lighted incubator.

31. The device according to claim 14, wherein light in another wavelength range, sound, vibration, magnetic field, or electric field is applied in addition to the irradiation of light in the specific wavelength range.

32. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, can perform the following steps for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject: for a device including a light source capable of irradiating a subject with light in a specific wavelength range at a constant light level or at a specific blinking frequency, and a control unit that controls the blinking frequency of the light source, the control unit operating the device to control the blinking frequency of the light source to 0 Hz or in a range of 30 to 150 Hz, and the light source operating the device to irradiate the subject with light in a wavelength range of 360 to 400 nm.

33. A device for inhibiting neovascularization in the superficial retina of a subject, comprising glass, spectacle lenses, or contact lenses that allow violet light to pass through.

34. A part built into or attached to the device according to claim 14, characterized in that it is replaceable.

35. A part built into or attached to the device according to claim 33, characterized in that it is replaceable.

36. A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device of claim 14.

37. A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device of claim 33.

38. A system for replacing, repairing, or maintaining a component according to claim 34 or 35.

39. A method of replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device of claim 14.

40. A method of replacing, repairing, or maintaining the device of claim 33.

41. A method of replacing, repairing, or maintaining a component according to claim 34 or 35.

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