Photobiomodulation apparatus, system, and method

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for performing photobiomodulation by applying light to a temporal region, a nose, and / or an eye of a subject are disclosed. A method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy to a subject can include applying a dose of light to at least one of a temporal region, through a nose, or to an eyelid of a subject, detecting an effect of the applied dose of light on a biological characteristic of the subject, and adjusting the dose based on the detected effect.

Description

Docket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221PHOTOBIOMODULATION APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHODCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 686,624, filed 23 August 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 686,613, filed 23 August 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to apparatuses, systems, and methods for photobiomodulation, and more particularly, to apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing targeted photonic (light) applications to ocular, intranasal, and transcranial regions to, inter alia, influence the retinal area of a subject, and to increase choroidal thickness, decrease eye axial length, and positively influence mitochondrial activity, which can be used to improve physiological performance and control myopia progression. Photobiomodulation may positively influence mitochondrial activity in a subject’s cells producing nitric oxide as a result of the mitochondrial influence. The nitric oxide is a vaso-dilator which may improve blood flow in the choroid.BACKGROUND

[0003] Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, has become a global health concern with prevalence rates increasing dramatically over recent decades. The condition occurs when a subject’s eye grows too long relative to its optical power, causing distant objects to appear blurred while near objects remain clear. This refractive error affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to various complications, particularly in cases of high myopia where the axial length of the eye becomes excessively elongated.

[0004] The progression of myopia typically begins in childhood and continues through adolescence, with environmental factors such as increased near work activities and reduced outdoor time contributing to its development. As myopia progresses, the eye undergoes structural changes including axial elongation and alterations in choroidal thickness. These changes can result in pathological complications such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, which may lead to permanent vision loss.14916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221

[0005] Current approaches to myopia management include optical interventions such as multifocal contact lenses and spectacle lenses, pharmacological treatments like low-dose atropine, and orthokeratology. While these methods have shown varying degrees of effectiveness in slowing myopia progression, they often require ongoing compliance and may have limitations in terms of efficacy or side effects. Further proposed approached include irradiating a subject’s eye with red or near-infrared light. However, these methods for controlling the growth of the eye’s axial length can cause retinal burn, overexposure, light exposure shock, require user compliance throughout the day (e.g., multiple times per day), and the like.

[0006] Thus, it is desirable to develop apparatuses, systems, and methods for photobiomodulation that include effective wavelength selection, intensity parameters, exposure durations, and delivery mechanisms to achieve desired therapeutic outcomes while maintaining safety standards.SUMMARY

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy to a subject. The method can include applying a dose of light to at least one of a skull-related region, through a nose, or to an eyelid (e.g., a closed eyelid) of a subject. In some examples, the method can include detecting an effect of the applied dose of light on a biological characteristic of the subject and adjusting the dose based on the detected effect.

[0008] In some examples, the light can be a white light applied via an LED array or a halogen light. The white light can have wavelengths in a range from 400 nm to 700 nm.

[0009] The light can be applied for a duration in a range from 0.5 minutes to 10 minutes. The light can be applied for a duration in a range from 0.5 minutes to 1 minute. The light can be applied for a duration in a range from 10 minutes to 25 minutes. The light can be applied for a duration in a range from 25 minutes to 60 minutes. In some examples, the overall exposure time can be adjusted according to the individual subject’s biological response.

[0010] The light can be applied with an intensity in a range from 1,000 lux to 50,000 lux, in a range from 5,000 lux to 15,000 lux, or in a range from 8,000 lux to 10,000 lux. The intensity can be determined and controlled by the biological response of the subject and adjusted accordingly. In some examples, the intensity may not be constant for the24916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 duration of the exposure but may be varied as a response to the subject’s biological responses. In other examples, the photonic (light) emission itself may be applied as a continuous wave or in a frequency that elicits the best or greatest biological response.

[0011] In some examples, the light can be red light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 700 nm. The white light or red light can be combined with other wavelengths such as near infra-red with wavelengths exceeding 700 nm or infra-red light with wavelengths exceeding 800 nm, and even up to or exceeding 1300 nm.

[0012] The light can be applied for a duration that is determined to provide the best biological response in the subject as can be determined by industry accepted metrics such as axial length and choroidal thickness monitoring. The light can be applied for a duration in a range from 0.5 minutes to 10 minutes, in a range from 2 minutes to 5 minutes, in a range from 10 minutes to 25 minutes, or in a range from 25 minutes to 60 minutes. The overall exposure time can be adjusted according to the individual subject’s biological response.

[0013] The light can be applied with an intensity in a range from 1,000 lux to 50,000 lux, in a range from 5,000 lux to 15,000 lux, or in a range from 8,000 lux to 10,000 lux. The intensity can be determined and controlled by the biological response of the subject and adjusted accordingly.

[0014] In some examples, the dose can include wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to increase a choroidal thickness of the subject’s eye. In some examples, the dose can include wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to decrease an axial length of the subject’s eye. In some examples, the dose can include wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the subject. In some examples, the dose can include wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to decrease blood glucose, increase respiration, and positively influence or increase mitochondrial function in the subject.

[0015] In some examples, an intensity of the dose can be ramped up while applying the dose of light. In some examples, an intensity of the dose can be ramped down while applying the dose of light. In some examples, an intensity of the dose can be ramped up and down or otherwise varied while applying the dose of light.

[0016] In some examples, the method can further include administering a supplement to the subject before applying the dose of light, the supplement comprising at least one of34916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 beetroot juice, watermelon juice, green tea extract, omega-3 fatty acids, or curcumin. Such supplements can increase vasodilation via production of nitric oxide.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy to a subject. The method can include applying a dose of light to at least one of a skull-related region, through a nose, or to an eyelid of a subject. In some examples, the method further includes detecting an effect of the applied dose of light on a biological characteristic of the subject and adjusting the dose based on the detected effect.

[0018] In some examples, the dose of light can be applied to a first side or area of the subject’s head. In some examples, the dose of light can be applied to other areas of the subject’s head. The effect can be detected on a second side or area of the subject’s head. In some examples, the dose of light can be applied to multiple areas of the subject’s head. In some examples, the dose of light can be applied to multiple areas of the subject’s head and at least one eyelid while applying the dose of light.

[0019] In some examples, the method can further include using artificial intelligence or machine learning to track doses applied to the subject and the effect of the doses on the subject. The method can further include using the artificial intelligence or the machine learning to provide a dose application schedule.

[0020] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a photobiomodulation system including a light source configured to apply light to a subject, a sensor configured to detect a biological characteristic of the subject, and a controller coupled to the light source and the sensor. The controller can be configured to adjust a dose applied by the light source based on a reading from the sensor or an array of sensing equipment.

[0021] In some examples, the light source can include a halogen (such as a tungstenhalogen lamp), fluorescent bulbs, gas xenon lamps, or an LED array configured to emit white light. The white light can have wavelengths in a range from 400 nm to 700 nm. In some examples, the light source can include a light sources such as a halogen or an LED array configured to emit red light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 700 nm. The white light or red light can be combined with other wavelengths such as near infrared with wavelengths exceeding 700 nm or infra-red light with wavelengths exceeding 800 nm and can include light with a wavelength up to or exceeding 1300 nm.

[0022] In some examples, the sensor or the array of sensing equipment can be configured to detect at least one of axial length of an eye, choroidal thickness of an eye,44916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 adenosine triphosphate level, mitochondrial health, or pupil diameter. In some examples, the sensor or the array of sensing equipment can include an Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry (OLCR) sensor, an Optical Coherence Tomography (OTC) sensor, a pupillometry sensor, or a mitochondrial fluorescence sensor.

[0023] In some examples, the controller can be configured to adjust the dose in realtime as the light source applies light to the subject. In some examples, the controller can be configured to adjust a subsequent dose of light applied to the subject based on at least one previous dose of light applied to the subject by the light source.

[0024] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a photobiomodulation apparatus. The photobiomodulation apparatus can include a device housing, a light source and a sensor or array of sensing equipment disposed within the device housing, and a strap or retaining mechanism configured to retain the device housing relative to a head of the subject. The light source can be configured to apply a dose of light to at least one of a skull-related (e.g., a temporal region), through a nose (e.g., via one or both nostrils), or to or through an eyelid of a subject. The sensor or the array of sensing equipment can be configured to detect a biological characteristic of the subject.

[0025] In some examples, the light source can be configured to be positioned on a first side of the head of the subject. In some examples, the light source can be configured to be positioned adjacent to other areas of the subject’s head. In some examples, the light source can be configured to be positioned adjacent to multiple areas of the subject’s head. In some examples, the light source can be configured to be positioned adjacent to multiple areas of the subject’s head and at least one eyelid while applying the dose of light.

[0026] The sensor or the array of sensing equipment can be configured to be positioned or have remote access on a second side of the head of the subject. The sensor or array of sensing equipment can be configured to be positioned in a manner that can detect a biological response of the subject. In some examples, the device housing can include a first device sub-housing at least partially surrounding the light source and a second device sub-housing at least partially surrounding the sensor. The light source and the sensor can be coupled through wires or other electronics in the strap or the retaining mechanism.54916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221

[0027] In some examples, the photobiomodulation apparatus can further include a controller disposed within the device housing and configured to adjust the dose of light to be applied by the light source based on the sensor.

[0028] In some examples, the light source can be configured to emit light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 1300 nm or in a range from 600 nm to 900.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

[0030] FIGS. 1 A and IB illustrate a front view and a side view, respectively, of photobiomodulation light application locations on a subject’s head.

[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a photobiomodulation apparatus on a subject’s head.

[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a photobiomodulation apparatus on a subject’s head.

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a photobiomodulation system.

[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0036] The following disclosure relates to apparatuses, systems, and methods for photobiomodulation. More specifically, the following disclosure relates to doses of light (e.g., wavelengths, durations, intensities, and the like) and application areas that can be applied to subjects to, inter alia, increase choroidal thickness, decrease eye axial length, and increase or positively influence mitochondrial activity. This can be used to improve physiological performance, control myopia progression, and provide other healing and benefits throughout the body.64916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221

[0037] Photobiomodulation represents a therapeutic approach that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes and promote healing responses within biological tissues. This non-invasive technology operates by delivering controlled doses of light energy to target areas, where the light interacts with cellular components to enhance metabolic function and promote various physiological benefits. In medical applications, photobiomodulation may be employed to address a wide range of conditions, from localized tissue repair to systemic health improvements, by leveraging the body’s natural response to specific light wavelengths.

[0038] The following disclosure provides apparatuses, systems, and methods that can be used to apply therapeutic light to a subject through the subject’s skull (including but not limited to, through relatively thin portions of the subject’s skull or head, such as a temporal region), nose, and / or eyes (e.g., directly to the eyes or indirectly to the eyes through the eyelids). Effective doses are described that can be used to increase choroidal thickness, decrease the axial length of eyes, increase or positively influence mitochondrial activity, increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, decrease blood glucose levels, and / or provide other effects. This can be used to slow, prevent, or reverse myopia progression, treat Alzheimer’s disease, treat diabetes, and provide other health benefits throughout the patient’s body.

[0039] The following disclosure provides various examples that apply light indirectly to a subject’s eyes by placement of a light source directed to portions of the subject’s head or intracranially through the skull. This can include, in some examples, placing the light source adjacent to and directed through portions of the subject’s head. Some light can be effectively transmitted through the calcium pathways of the skull, especially at higher wavelengths. In other examples, the light can be applied where skull bones are naturally thinner, such as adjacent to a temporal region or in a nasal cavity of the subject. This can also include placing the light source adjacent to and directing the light through a closed eyelid of the subject. By filtering the light through various structures of the patient’s body (e.g., bone, skin, veins, tissues, and the like), adverse effects from applying the light directly to an open eye can be avoided. These adverse effects can include retinal burn, overexposure, and light exposure shock. These previously unaddressed modes of application (e.g., application of light to closed eyelids, temporal and other regions a subject’s head or skull, or through a subject’s nasal cavity) may be applied during sleep. This can improve subject compliance (e.g., allowing doses of light74916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 to be applied multiple times per night without additional subject intervention) and the like. The application of white light to these modes of application can result in the delivery of red and other wavelengths of light to the ocular structures of the subject by preferable absorption of wavelengths other than red light by the subject’s body structures (e.g., bone, skin, veins, tissues, and the like).

[0040] These and other examples are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1 A through 5. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein, a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature including at least one of a first option, a second option, or a third option should be understood as referring to a system, a method, an article, a component, a feature, or a sub-feature that can include one of each listed option (e.g., only one of the first option, only one of the second option, or only one of the third option), multiple of a single listed option (e.g., two or more of the first option), two options simultaneously (e.g., one of the first option and one of the second option), or combination thereof (e.g., two of the first option and one of the second option).

[0041] FIGS. 1 A and IB illustrate a front view and a side view, respectively, of photobiomodulation light application locations on a subject’s head 100.Photobiomodulation technology may be applied to various regions of the head 100 through multiple delivery methods. The application locations include an ocular application 102, an intranasal application 104, and a trans cranial application 106. In the ocular application 102, light can be applied to a subject’s eyes, either directly through open eyes, or indirectly through the subject’s eyelids. In the intranasal application 104, light can be applied through a light source that is inserted into a subject’s nose. The light can be applied through one or more light sources that can be inserted into one or both nostrils of the subject. In the transcranial application 106, light can be applied through a light source that is placed adjacent to a skull or skull-related region of the subject’s head. The skull-related region can include a portion of the subject’s skull having relatively thin bone between the outside of the subject’s head and ocular structures of the subject’s head, such as a temporal region of a subject or the subject’s pterion. The transcranial application 106 can be applied through any portions of a subject’s skull, including, but not limited to, portions of the subject’s skull that have relatively thin bone. Additional84916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 applications include intracranial applications or other applications, such as through the subject’s ears. Each of these application methods provides distinct pathways for light delivery and may result in different therapeutic outcomes based on the specific anatomical structures and tissues that the light encounters during treatment. Moreover, different doses of light may be applied depending on which application location is used. Parameters for the doses may include light wavelengths, duration, and light intensity.

[0042] The ocular application 102 may involve directing light through a subject’s eyelids to reach retinal tissues, allowing for targeted treatment of eye-related conditions while maintaining patient comfort through closed-eyelid delivery. In some cases, the intranasal application 104 may deliver light through nasal passages to reach brain tissues, providing a pathway for systemic effects through the rich vascular networks present in the nasal cavity. The transcranial application 106 may involve delivering light through the temple region to reach retinal tissues and other deep structures, utilizing the skull's natural openings and thinner bone areas to maximize light penetration.

[0043] The relationship between light characteristics and therapeutic outcomes may vary considerably based on both the wavelengths selected and the method of application employed. Different wavelengths of light may interact with various cellular components and chromophores, leading to distinct biological responses and therapeutic effects. The application method may influence how the light penetrates tissues, the depth of penetration achieved, and the specific cellular targets that receive the light energy. In some cases, the combination of wavelength selection and application method may be tailored to address specific medical conditions or to achieve particular therapeutic goals.

[0044] Light sources with various doses can be applied to any of the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, or the transcranial application 106. As examples, the light sources can include a white light source (e.g., a halogen light source (such as a tungsten-halogen lamp), fluorescent bulbs, gas xenon lamps, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a red light source (e.g., a halogen light source, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), or the like. Light can be applied for one or more periods, such as a duration in a range from about 2 minutes to about 5 minutes, in a range from about 0.5 minutes to about 10 minutes, in a range from about 5 minutes to about 15 minutes, in a range from about 10 minutes to about 25 minutes, in a range from about 25 minutes to about 60 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 10 minutes, about 15 minutes, or the like. Applications of light can be spaced apart, such as94916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 by a period of about 15 minutes, about 20 minutes, about 30 minutes, about an hour, or the like.

[0045] White light sources can include a broad range of wavelengths, such as wavelengths from about 380 nm to about 800 nm, from about 400 nm to about 700 nm, less than about 400 nm to greater than about 800 nm, or the like. In examples in which white light is applied to any of the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, or the transcranial application 106, the white light can be a broad spectrum white light that includes long wavelengths. This comprehensive spectral range encompasses violet light at wavelengths in a range from about 380 nm to about 450 nm for antimicrobial applications, blue light at wavelengths in a range from about 400 nm to about 495 nm for antibacterial applications, red light at wavelengths of about 630 nm, about 660 nm, or about 670 nm for myopia control applications, and infrared light at wavelengths in a range from about 780 nm to about 850 nm or from about 830 nm to about 860 nm for systemic health benefits. The broad spectrum output may subsequently be filtered to achieve the desired therapeutic wavelengths for specific treatment protocols. In some examples, white light can be applied directly to a subject’s eyelid, which can filter and shift the white light to red light that is applied to the subject’s eye. White light can also be filtered or shifted by other structures in a subject’s body, such as veins, skin, bone, and the like. The white light can be applied with an intensity in a range from about 1,000 lux to about 50,000 lux, in a range from about 5,000 lux to about 15,000 lux, in a range from about 8,000 lux to about 10,000 lux, in a range from 9,000 lux to 12,000 lux, in a range from about 800 lux to about 1,200 lux, in a range from about 30,000 lux to about 35,000 lux, in a range from about 600 lux to about 40,000 lux, about 1,000 lux, aboutI,100 lux, about 1,200 lux, about 9,000 lux, about 10,000 lux, about 11,000 lux, about 30,000 lux, about 32,000 lux, about 35,000 lux, or the like. In an example in which the white light source is applied to the ocular application 102, the white light can be applied to the subject’s eyelid with an irradiance at the source of about 10,000 lux, in a range from about 8,000 lux to about 12,000 lux, in a range from about 9,000 lux to aboutI I,000 lux, or the like. An estimated irradiance at the subject’s eyeball can be about 500 lux, about 450 lux, about 550 lux, in a range from about 400 lux to about 600 lux, in a range from about 450 lux to about 550 lux, or the like. In an example in which the white light source is applied to the intranasal application 104, the white light can be applied within the subject’s nose with an irradiance at the source of about 32,000 pW / cm2, about104916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-22130,000 pW / cm2, about 35,000 pW / cm2, in a range from about 30,000 pW / cm2to about 35,000 pW / cm2, in a range from about 31,000 pW / cm2to about 33,000 pW / cm2, or the like. An estimated irradiance at the subject’s eyeball can be about 320 pW / cm2, about 300 pW / cm2, about 350 pW / cm2, in a range from about 300 pW / cm2to about 400 pW / cm2, or the like. In an example in which the white light source is applied to the transcranial application 106, the white light can be applied to a skull-related region (e.g., but in no way limited to, a temporal region or a pterion) of the subject with an irradiance at the source of about 288,000 pW / cm2, about 275,000 pW / cm2, about 300,000 pW / cm2, in a range from about 275,000 pW / cm2to about 300,000 pW / cm2, in a range from about 250,000 pW / cm2to about 350,000 pW / cm2, or the like. An estimated irradiance at the subject’s eyeball can be about 3,000 pW / cm2, about 2,800 pW / cm2, about 3,200 pW / cm2, in a range from about 2,600 pW / cm2to about 3,200 pW / cm2, or the like.

[0046] Red light sources can be a direct red light source (e.g., an LED, an LED array, or a halogen light), or another light source, such as a white light source, that is filtered or otherwise shifted to provide red light to a subject. Red light can generally have wavelengths in a range from about 625 nm to about 750 nm. Red light applications can be selected with wavelengths in a range from about 600 nm to about 700 nm, in a range from about 625 nm to about 700 nm, in a range from about 660 nm to about 700 nm, about 630 nm, about 660 nm, about 670 nm, or the like. The red light can be applied with an intensity in a range from about 1,000 lux to about 50,000 lux, in a range from about 5,000 lux to about 15,000 lux, in a range from about 8,000 lux to about 10,000 lux, in a range from about 1,200 lux to about 2,000 lux, in a range from 1,000 lux to 1,500 lux, in a range from about 1,400 lux to about 1,800 lux, in a range from about 400 lux to about 600 lux, in a range from about 40 lux to about 100 lux, in a range from about 40 lux to about 2,000 lux, about 35 lux, about 55 lux, about 65 lux, about 70 lux, about 95 lux, about 130 lux, about 190 lux, about 375 lux, about 500 lux, about 1,600 or the like. In an example in which the red light source is applied to the ocular application 102, the white light can be applied directly to the subject’s eye with an irradiance at the source of about 600 pW / sr*cm2(about 130 lux), in a range from about 500 pW / sr*cm2to about 700 pW / sr*cm2, in a range from about 400 pW / sr*cm2to about 700 pW / sr*cm2, or the like. In an example in which the red light source is applied to the intranasal application 104, the white light can be applied within the subject’s nose with an irradiance at the source of about 35,000 pW / cm2, about 32,000 pW / cm2, about 38,000 pW / cm2, in a range from114916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 about 33,000 pW / cm2to about 38,000 pW / cm2, in a range from about 30,000 pW / cm2to about 40,000 pW / cm2, or the like. An estimated irradiance at the subject’s eyeball can be about 350 pW / cm2, about 325 pW / cm2, about 375 pW / cm2, in a range from about 300 pW / cm2to about 400 pW / cm2, or the like.

[0047] In some examples, the white light and / or the red light can be combined with other wavelengths of light, such as near infra-red, infra-red, or the like. In examples in which the white light and / or the red light is combined with near infra-red light, the near infra-red light can have wavelengths exceeding 700 nm. In examples in which the white light and / or the red light is combined with infra-red light, the infra-red light can have wavelengths exceeding 800 nm. In some examples, the light source can be configured to emit light having wavelengths in a range from about 600 nm to about 900 nm, in a range from about 600 nm to about 1200 nm, or in a range from about 600 nm to about 1300 nm, or more. Applying long wavelengths, such as wavelengths about 900 nm can provide stimulus to calcium pathways in the subject, which can trigger cellular responses including growth, differentiation, and apoptosis.

[0048] Performing photobiomodulation and applying light to any of the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, or the transcranial application 106 can provide a number of benefits. For example, light applied to any of these areas can penetrate a subject’s body and reach one or more portions of the subject’s eyes or related structures. The applied light can increase the choroidal thickness, decrease axial eye length, provide stop signals for axial eye growth, and otherwise slow, prevent, or reverse myopia progression. The applied light can increase or positively influence mitochondrial activity and increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. This can improve central nervous system function and can provide physiological and performance benefits. These improvements can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and provide treatments for other diseases or reduce the effects of ageing. The applied light can increase glucose demand, reduce blood sugar levels, reduce damaging fluctuations of blood glucose, and can be effective in treating diabetes.

[0049] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 A and IB, the filtering process may occur through multiple mechanisms to refine the light characteristics before reaching target tissues. Artificial filters may be employed to selectively transmit desired wavelengths while blocking unwanted portions of the spectrum, allowing for precise control over the therapeutic light delivered to the patient. Human tissue may also act as a natural filter,124916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 with different tissue types exhibiting varying degrees of absorption and transmission for different wavelengths, thereby modifying the spectral composition of the light as it travels through the body. Blood vessels may provide additional filtering effects, as hemoglobin and other blood components may selectively absorb certain wavelengths while allowing others to pass through, further refining the light that reaches deeper tissues and cellular targets.

[0050] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a photobiomodulation apparatus 202 on a subject’s head 200. The apparatus 202 may be configured to provide photobiomodulation treatment through a single integrated device housing 204 that contains both light delivery and monitoring components. The apparatus 202 may be positioned on the subject’s head 200 to enable simultaneous light application and biological response measurement from the same anatomical location. A light source 206 within the device housing 204 may generate therapeutic light for delivery to target tissues, while a sensor 210 within the same device housing 204 may detect biological characteristics to monitor treatment effectiveness. This integrated configuration may provide advantages in terms of device compactness, ease of use, and precise alignment between light delivery and measurement locations.

[0051] The light source 206 may be a white light source (e.g., a halogen light source (such as a tungsten-halogen lamp), fluorescent bulbs, gas xenon lamps, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a red light source (e.g., a halogen light source, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a filtered white light source, or the like. The light source 206 can be configured to provide any of the doses of light to a target application area discussed about with respect to FIGS. 1 A and IB and the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, and the transcranial application 106. In some examples, the apparatus 202 and the light source 206 can be configured to apply doses of light to one or more areas of the subject’s head 200, either simultaneously or by moving the photobiomodulation apparatus 202 between dose applications.

[0052] The device housing 204, the light source 206, and the sensor 210 can be configured differently, depending on which of the application areas the apparatus 202 is configured to apply light to. For example, the light source 206 and / or the sensor 210 can at least partially extend from a surface of the device housing 204 in examples in which the apparatus 202 is configured to apply light to the ocular application 102 or the134916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 intranasal application 104. The apparatus 202 can include components that retain a subject’s eyelid in an open or a closed position during light application in examples in which the apparatus 202 is configured to apply light to the ocular application 102. The light source 206 can be positioned distally on a flex arm in examples in which the apparatus 202 is configured to apply light to the intranasal application 104 so that the light source 206 can extend into and maneuver in the subject’s nose. The light source 206 and the sensor 210 can be positioned within a flat surface or a curved surface of the device housing 204 in examples in which the apparatus 202 is configured to apply light to the transcranial application 106.

[0053] In some examples, the light source 206 may be configured as coherent laser light for applications requiring precise beam characteristics and high spatial coherence. In other cases, the light source 206 may be configured as incoherent LED light for applications where broader beam profiles and lower cost may be advantageous. The selection between coherent and incoherent light sources may depend on factors such as the target tissue depth, desired light penetration characteristics, and the specific biological mechanisms being targeted during treatment.

[0054] A controller 208 within the device housing 204 may determine the dose parameters to be applied through the light source 206, including wavelength selection, intensity levels, exposure duration, and any patterns of light delivery. The controller 208 may implement a biphasic dose-response pattern following the Arndt-Schulz curve, where low doses may produce stimulatory effects while higher doses may produce inhibitory effects, allowing for precise therapeutic outcomes based on the specific biological response desired. An example of a biphasic dose-response pattern following the Arndt-Schulz curve can be found in Ying- Ying Huang et al., Biphasic Dose Response in Low Level Light Therapy - An Update, Dose Response (Sep. 2, 2011), 9(4):602-18, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The dose determination process may involve analyzing patient-specific factors, treatment history, and real-time sensor feedback to optimize the therapeutic light delivery for each individual treatment session.

[0055] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the sensor 210 may be configured to measure various biological characteristics that indicate treatment effectiveness and physiological response to photobiomodulation therapy. The sensor 210 can be or include an optical sensor, an Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry (OLCR) sensor, an Optical144916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221Coherence Tomography (OCT) sensor, a pupillometer, one or more probes, one or more biosensors, a microscope, or the like. The sensor 210 may measure choroidal thickness changes and / or axial length changes for the subject’s eyes to provide comprehensive monitoring of ocular structural modifications during treatment. In some cases, the sensor 210 may measure pupil diameter of the fellow eye to estimate the pupil size of the treated eye during closed-eyelid applications, providing indirect assessment of the lightreceiving eye when direct measurement may not be feasible. These measurement capabilities may enable real-time treatment monitoring and post-treatment assessment of therapeutic outcomes. The sensor 210 can include a single sensor or an array of sensors or sensing equipment.

[0056] The treatment protocols implemented by the apparatus 202 may include treatment durations of 2-3 minutes for myopia control applications, providing sufficient light exposure to achieve therapeutic effects while maintaining patient comfort and compliance. A strap 212 (referred to broadly as a retaining mechanism) may be coupled to the device housing 204 to secure the apparatus 202 in position relative to the head 200 during treatment sessions. The strap 212 may provide adjustable retention force to accommodate different head sizes and shapes while maintaining consistent positioning of the light source 206 and sensor 210 relative to the target treatment area. The integrated design of the apparatus 202 may facilitate consistent same-side treatment and monitoring, where both light delivery and biological response measurement occur at the same anatomical location to maximize correlation between applied dose and measured effects.

[0057] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a photobiomodulation apparatus 302 on a subject’s head 300. The apparatus 302 may be configured with separate device housings to enable contralateral treatment protocols where light application and biological response measurement occur at different anatomical locations. The subject’s head 300 may receive photobiomodulation treatment through a device housing 304a positioned on one side while monitoring occurs through a device housing 304b positioned on an opposite side. This dual housing configuration may provide enhanced flexibility in treatment protocols by allowing light to be applied to a first side of the subject’s head while effects are measured on a second, different, opposite side of the subject’s head. Moreover, light can be applied to one application area (e.g., a subject’s skull-related region (e.g., a temporal region) or intranasally), while responses to the applied light can154916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 be detected in another measurement area (e.g., a subject’s eyes). The separation of light delivery and measurement functions may enable more precise targeting of specific anatomical structures while maintaining optimal sensor positioning for accurate biological response detection.

[0058] A light source 306 within the device housing 304a may generate therapeutic light for delivery to target tissues on one side of the head 300, while a sensor 310 within the device housing 304b may detect biological characteristics on the opposite side to monitor treatment effectiveness through contralateral measurement protocols. The sensor 310 can be or include a sensor the same as or similar to the sensor 210, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2, and can include an Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry (OLCR) sensor, an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) sensor, a pupillometer, one or more probes, one or more biosensors, a microscope, or the like. This configuration may be advantageous when light applied to the subject’s right temple, nose, or eye region produces measurable effects in the subject’s left eye, such as changes in pupil diameter, axial eye length modifications, choroidal thickness variations, or ATP level fluctuations. The contralateral measurement approach may provide insights into systemic photobiomodulation effects that extend beyond the immediate treatment area to influence distant anatomical structures through vascular, neural, or biochemical pathways. The sensor 310 can include a single sensor or an array of sensors or sensing equipment. In some examples, the apparatus 302 and the light source 306 can be configured to apply doses of light to one or more areas of the subject’s head 300, either simultaneously or by moving the photobiomodulation apparatus 302 between dose applications.

[0059] The light source 306 may be a white light source (e.g., a halogen light source, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a red light source (e.g., a halogen light source, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a filtered white light source, or the like. The light source 306 can be configured to provide any of the doses of light to a target application area discussed about with respect to FIGS. 1A and IB and the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, and the transcranial application 106. The light source 306 can be the same as or similar to the light source 206, discussed above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0060] With continued reference to FIG. 3, a controller 308 may be distributed between the device housing 304a and the device housing 304b to coordinate light delivery and measurement functions across the dual housing system. In some cases, the controller 308164916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 may be located within the device housing 304a to provide direct control over light source 306 parameters while communicating wirelessly or through wired connections with the sensor 310 in the device housing 304b. In some cases, the controller 308 may be duplicated in both device housings to enable independent operation of each component while maintaining synchronized treatment and measurement protocols. The distributed controller architecture may enhance system reliability by providing redundant control capabilities and may enable more sophisticated treatment algorithms that account for real-time feedback from both light delivery and measurement subsystems. In some cases, the controller 308 may be located within the device housing 304b to provide direct control over the sensor 310 while communicating wirelessly or through wired connections with the light source 306 in the device housing 304a.

[0061] The apparatus 302 may include a projector system with LED arrays, diffuser screens, and Badal lenses for controlled light delivery through the light source 306. The LED arrays may provide multiple wavelength options and intensity levels to accommodate various treatment protocols, while the diffuser screens may ensure uniform light distribution across the target treatment area. The Badal lenses may enable precise focusing and beam shaping to optimize light penetration characteristics for specific anatomical targets. The apparatus 302 may also include neutral density filters for precise intensity control during light exposure, allowing for fine-tuned dose adjustments without requiring changes to the underlying LED drive currents or exposure durations.

[0062] A strap 312 may be configured to secure both the device housing 304a and the device housing 304b in position relative to the head 300 during treatment sessions. The strap 312 may incorporate multiple attachment points and adjustable segments to accommodate the spatial separation between the device housings while maintaining consistent positioning throughout the treatment duration. In some cases, the strap 312 may include elastic or flexible materials that conform to the subject’s head 300 contours while providing sufficient retention force to prevent device movement during patient activities. The strap system may also incorporate quick-release mechanisms to facilitate rapid device positioning and removal while ensuring secure attachment during active treatment periods.

[0063] The dual housing configuration may enable treatment protocols that include multiple treatment sessions per day. The treatment sessions can have any desired spacing therebetween, such as about 20 minutes, about 30 minutes, about 1 hour, about 2 hours,174916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 about 4 hours, or the like. The temporal spacing between sessions may allow for biological recovery periods and may prevent potential photobiomodulation saturation effects that could reduce treatment efficacy. The contralateral measurement capabilities provided by the separate device housings may enable continuous monitoring of treatment effects throughout multiple daily sessions, providing feedback for dose optimization and treatment protocol refinement. The distributed architecture may also facilitate patient mobility between treatment sessions while maintaining consistent device positioning and measurement accuracy across extended treatment periods.

[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a photobiomodulation system 400. The system 400 may provide a comprehensive architecture for photobiomodulation therapy through the integration of multiple functional components within a unified framework. The system 400 may include a light source 402, a controller 404, and a sensor 406 that work in coordination to deliver controlled therapeutic light while monitoring biological responses during treatment sessions. These components may be housed within a device housing 408 that provides physical protection and structural support for the integrated system architecture. The system 400 may enable precise control over light delivery parameters while simultaneously collecting real-time feedback data to optimize treatment protocols and ensure therapeutic effectiveness across various medical applications.

[0065] The light source 402 within the system 400 may be configured to generate therapeutic light across multiple wavelength ranges and intensity levels to accommodate diverse treatment protocols and patient-specific requirements. In some cases, the light source 402 may be delivered intravenously through a fiber optic cannula for systemic photobiomodulation effects, enabling direct delivery of therapeutic light to the circulatory system for widespread cellular activation throughout the body. The fiber optic cannula may provide a minimally invasive pathway for light delivery while maintaining precise control of dose parameters and treatment duration. The intravenous delivery approach may enable treatment durations of 30-40 minutes for systemic health applications, allowing for extended light exposure periods that may be necessary to achieve therapeutic effects in deep tissues and organs that are not accessible through external light application methods.

[0066] The light source 402 may be a white light source (e.g., a halogen light source(such as a tungsten-halogen lamp), fluorescent bulbs, gas xenon lamps, an LED184916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a red light source (e.g., a halogen light source, an LED light source, an array of LED lights, or the like), a filtered white light source, or the like. The light source 402 can be configured to provide any of the doses of light to a target application area discussed about with respect to FIGS. 1 A and IB and the ocular application 102, the intranasal application 104, and the transcranial application 106. The light source 306 can be the same as or similar to the light sources 206, 306, discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0067] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the controller 404 may serve as the central processing unit for the system 400, coordinating the operation of the light source 402 and the sensor 406 while implementing sophisticated treatment algorithms and safety protocols. The controller 404 may process real-time sensor data to make dynamic adjustments to light delivery parameters during active treatment sessions, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes while preventing potential adverse effects from excessive light exposure. The controller 404 may also store treatment history data and patientspecific parameters to enable personalized therapy protocols that account for individual biological responses and treatment progression over time. The controller 404 may implement feedback control loops that continuously monitor biological responses and adjust light delivery parameters to maintain therapeutic effectiveness throughout extended treatment sessions. The controller 404 can utilize machine learning and / or artificial intelligence to track doses applied to a subject, track responses of the subject’s body to the applied doses, provide dose recommendations, provide dose timing recommendations, and the like.

[0068] The sensor 406 may provide comprehensive monitoring capabilities for assessing treatment effectiveness and biological response to photobiomodulation therapy across multiple physiological parameters. In some cases, the sensor 406 may use Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry or Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for detailed retinal and choroidal imaging, enabling high-resolution visualization of ocular structures and precise measurement of tissue thickness changes during treatment. The OCT imaging capabilities may provide real-time feedback on choroidal thickness variations, retinal layer modifications, and vascular perfusion changes that occur in response to photobiomodulation therapy. The sensor 406 may also incorporate additional sensing modalities such as spectroscopy, fluorescence imaging, or electrical impedance measurement to provide comprehensive assessment of cellular and tissue-level responses194916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 to therapeutic light exposure. The sensor 406 may include a pupillometer, probes, biosensors, a microscope, or the like.

[0069] The system 400 may target specific cellular mechanisms including cytochrome c oxidase activation and nitric oxide release to achieve therapeutic effects through well- defined biochemical pathways. The cytochrome c oxidase activation may occur when therapeutic light interacts with this terminal enzyme in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, leading to enhanced cellular respiration and increased adenosine triphosphate production. The nitric oxide release may result from photobiomodulation effects on nitric oxide synthase enzymes and nitrosyl complexes within cells, leading to vasodilation, improved blood flow, and enhanced oxygen delivery to target tissues. The controller 404 may coordinate light delivery parameters to optimize these cellular mechanisms while the sensor 406 monitors downstream physiological effects such as tissue oxygenation levels, metabolic activity markers, and vascular perfusion changes that indicate successful activation of these therapeutic pathways.

[0070] The device housing 408 may provide structural integration for all system components while enabling flexible deployment configurations based on specific treatment requirements and anatomical considerations. The device housing 408 may incorporate multiple compartments or modules to accommodate different component sizes and thermal management requirements, particularly for high-power light sources that may generate heat during extended operation periods. The device housing 408 may also include user interface elements such as displays, control buttons, and status indicators that enable healthcare providers to monitor system operation and adjust treatment parameters during active therapy sessions. The modular design of the device housing 408 may facilitate component maintenance, upgrades, and customization for specific medical applications while maintaining consistent system performance and reliability across diverse clinical environments.

[0071] FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a method 500 for applying photobiomodulation light therapy. The method 500 may provide a systematic approach for delivering photobiomodulation therapy through a structured sequence of treatment steps that enable precise control over therapeutic light delivery while monitoring biological responses throughout the treatment process. The method 500 may incorporate multiple procedural blocks that work in coordination to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes while maintaining patient safety and treatment effectiveness across diverse204916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 medical applications. The method 500 may be implemented through automated systems that reduce the burden on healthcare providers while ensuring consistent treatment delivery and comprehensive monitoring of patient responses during therapy sessions. The method 500 can generally include a block 502 in which a dose of light is applied to a subject, a block 504 in which an effect of the dose is detected, and a block 506 in which the dose of light is adjusted based on the detected effect of the dose.

[0072] Block 502 may involve applying a dose of light to target anatomical locations through various delivery pathways that accommodate different treatment objectives and patient-specific requirements. The light dose application may be delivered through the ocular application 102, where therapeutic light may be directed through the subject’s eyelids to reach retinal tissues, providing targeted treatment while maintaining patient comfort during closed-eyelid delivery protocols. In some cases, the ocular application 102 can be applied directly to the subject’s eyes with the subject’s eyelids open. In some cases, the light dose may be applied through the intranasal application 104, where therapeutic light may be delivered through nasal passages to reach brain tissues and activate systemic photobiomodulation pathways. The intranasal application 104 may be delivered to reach eye tissues to shorten the axial eye length, increase choroidal thickness, provide stop signals for axial eye growth, or the like. The transcranial application 106 may also serve as a delivery pathway, where therapeutic light may be transmitted through the temple region to reach deep anatomical structures and influence cellular processes in areas that may not be accessible through other application methods. The transcranial application 106 may be delivered to reach eye tissues to shorten the axial eye length, increase choroidal thickness, provide stop signals for axial eye growth, or the like. Each of the applications 102, 104, 106 can provide any of the benefits discussed throughout the present disclosure, including reducing axial eye length, increasing choroidal thickness, providing eye growth stop signals, increasing or positively influencing mitochondrial activity, increasing ATP levels, reducing blood sugar levels, and the like. The retina’s of humans can have very high levels of mitochondria. Thus, block 502 can include applying light to a subject’s retina, such as through any of the applications 102, 104, 106, which can provide increased positive influences on the mitochondria and mitochondrial activity, which can result in positive results in the subject’s eye, brain, and / or other parts of the body.214916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221

[0073] The dose parameters implemented during the block 502 may include wavelength selection across multiple spectral ranges to target specific cellular chromophores and biological mechanisms. The dose may incorporate ramp-up periods where light intensity gradually increases from baseline levels to therapeutic levels over predetermined time intervals, allowing cellular systems to adapt to the light exposure and potentially enhancing therapeutic effectiveness. Similarly, the dose may include ramp-down periods where light intensity gradually decreases from therapeutic levels back to baseline, providing controlled cessation of light exposure that may prevent potential adverse effects from abrupt treatment termination. The wavelength component of the dose may encompass white light spectra that provide broad-spectrum cellular activation or red light spectra that target specific mitochondrial chromophores for enhanced cellular respiration and metabolic function.

[0074] In block 502, any ramp-up and / or ramp-down periods can be performed as the dose of light is applied to the subject. For example, the subject may be exposed to light as the light is ramped up and / or ramped down. Block 502 can include non-continuous waves or modulated wavelengths of light. Frequency and / or wavelength can be modulated continuously, non-continuously, or in waves. In one or all examples, mitochondria of the subject can have improved responses to frequencies in a range from about 10 Hz to about 40 Hz.

[0075] With continued reference to FIG. 5, the intensity parameters within the dose may range from low-level exposures suitable for sensitive applications to higher-level exposures that may be used for deep tissue penetration and systemic effects. The duration component of the dose may vary from brief exposure periods of 2-3 minutes for myopia control applications to extended exposure periods of 30-40 minutes for systemic health applications that involve sustained cellular activation to achieve therapeutic benefits. The temporal patterns of light delivery may include continuous exposure protocols where therapeutic light may be applied without interruption throughout the treatment duration, or pulsed exposure protocols where therapeutic light may be applied in predetermined on-off cycles that may enhance cellular responses through intermittent stimulation patterns. The block 502 can be used to apply any light doses discussed in the present disclosure to any of the application areas discussed in the present disclosure. For example, the description related to FIG. 1 describes various dosages (e.g., light224916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 wavelengths, light intensities, and durations) that can be applied in an ocular application 102, an intranasal application 104, or a transcranial application 106 /

[0076] Block 504 may involve detecting the effects of light exposure through comprehensive monitoring of biological characteristics that indicate treatment effectiveness and physiological response to photobiomodulation therapy. The detection process may be implemented as an optional component within treatment protocols, allowing for simplified treatment approaches that utilize pre-established dose parameters without real-time monitoring, or as an integrated component that provides continuous feedback for dynamic treatment optimization. Any of the sensors 210, 310, 406, discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2 through 4 can be used to detect axial length modifications in ocular tissues, providing quantitative assessment of structural changes that occur in response to photobiomodulation therapy for myopia control applications. Pupil diameter, choroid thickness, ATP levels, and / or blood glucose levels can be detected and monitored in block 504. Block 504 can include real-time monitoring as block 502 is being carried out, can be performed immediately following block 502, or can be performed some period after the completion of block 502. Block 504 can be performed at one or more intervals, such as during or after the performance of block 502.

[0077] The detection capabilities may extend to choroidal thickness measurements that provide insights into vascular perfusion changes and tissue remodeling processes that occur during photobiomodulation treatment. In some cases, the detection process may monitor levels of biochemical elements within or through skin tissues, including glucose concentrations that may indicate metabolic responses to light exposure, oxygen levels that may reflect improved tissue perfusion and cellular respiration, and adenosine triphosphate concentrations that may demonstrate enhanced, increased, or positively improved mitochondrial function and cellular energy production. The detection process may occur on the same anatomical side as light application to provide direct assessment of local tissue responses, or on the opposite side to evaluate systemic effects and contralateral responses that indicate widespread physiological activation.

[0078] The detection process may accommodate scenarios where light may be applied through the eyelid or directly into the eye while effects may be monitored in the fellow eye, providing assessment of bilateral responses and systemic photobiomodulation effects that extend beyond the immediate treatment area. The sensors 210, 310, 406 may utilize Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry (OLCR) or Optical Coherence234916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221Tomography (OCT) imaging capabilities to provide detailed visualization of retinal and choroidal structures, enabling precise measurement of tissue thickness changes and vascular perfusion modifications that occur during treatment sessions. The detection process may also incorporate spectroscopic analysis techniques that assess cellular metabolic activity and biochemical marker concentrations to provide comprehensive evaluation of treatment effectiveness across multiple physiological parameters. The sensors 210, 310, 406 may utilize pupillometry, mitochondrial fluorescence, or the like to analyze the subject’s biological responses to the doses of light applied in block 502.

[0079] Block 506 may involve adjusting the dose of light based on detected biological responses and predetermined treatment algorithms that optimize therapeutic outcomes while maintaining patient safety throughout the treatment process. The dose adjustment process may occur during active light application, enabling real-time optimization of treatment parameters based on immediate biological feedback and physiological responses detected through the sensors 210, 310, 406. In some cases, the dose adjustment may be implemented for subsequent or future light applications, allowing for treatment protocol refinement based on cumulative treatment history and long-term biological response patterns that emerge over multiple treatment sessions.

[0080] The controllers 208, 308, 404 may coordinate the dose adjustment process through sophisticated algorithms that analyze real-time sensor data and compare detected biological responses to predetermined therapeutic targets and safety thresholds. The adjustment process may modify wavelength selection to target different cellular chromophores based on observed treatment responses or may alter intensity levels to achieve optimal cellular activation without exceeding safe exposure limits. The duration adjustments may extend or reduce treatment periods based on the rate of biological response detection and the achievement of predetermined therapeutic endpoints during active treatment sessions.

[0081] The method 500 may be repeated one or more times during a treatment session on a given day, enabling multiple therapeutic exposures that may enhance treatment effectiveness through cumulative cellular activation and sustained biological responses. The repetition frequency may be tailored to specific medical conditions and patient requirements, with some protocols implementing multiple treatments per week for intensive therapy approaches, while other protocols may utilize daily treatments for maintenance therapy or weekly treatments for long-term management applications. The244916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221 method 500 may also accommodate monthly treatment schedules for conditions that utilize periodic therapeutic intervention without continuous treatment exposure.

[0082] The method 500 may be performed while the patient may be sleeping, providing significant advantages in terms of treatment compliance and patient convenience by eliminating the need for active patient participation during therapy sessions. The apparatuses 202, 302 or the system 400 may be positioned on a subject at bedtime, enabling automated treatment delivery throughout sleep periods without disrupting normal rest patterns or requiring conscious patient cooperation. In some cases, the method 500 may be performed while the subject may be engaged in other activities such as reading, watching television, or performing routine daily tasks, further enhancing treatment compliance by integrating therapy sessions into normal lifestyle patterns without requiring dedicated treatment time or activity restrictions.

[0083] The automated nature of the method 500 may increase subject compliance rates compared to treatment approaches that require active patient participation, conscious cooperation, or significant lifestyle modifications to accommodate therapy schedules. The apparatuses 202, 302 and the system 400 may implement the method 500 through pre-programmed treatment protocols that utilize minimal user intervention once the apparatuses 202, 302 or the system 400 is properly positioned and activated. Any of the straps associated with the apparatuses 202, 302 and the system 400 may facilitate consistent device positioning throughout extended treatment periods, ensuring reliable light delivery and sensor alignment even during patient movement or position changes that may occur during sleep or other activities.

[0084] In some examples, the method 500 can further include administering one or more supplements to a subject before, during, or after administering the dose of light of block 502. For example, the method 500 can further include administering a supplement to the subject to increase vaso-dilation, such as through the production of nitric acid. The supplement may include one or more of beetroot juice, watermelon juice, green tea extract, omega-3 fatty acids, or curcumin.

[0085] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 wt.%" is intended to mean "about 40 wt.%".254916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221

[0086] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.264916-3357-8338U

Claims

Docket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-221CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy to a subject, the method comprising: applying a dose of light to at least one of a skull-related region, through a nose, or to an eyelid of a subject.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is a white light applied via an LED array or a halogen light.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the light is applied for a duration in a range from 0.5 minutes to 1 minute.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the light is applied for a duration in a range from 10 minutes to 25 minutes.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein the light is applied with an intensity in a range from 8,000 lux to 10,000 lux.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the light is red light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 700 nm.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the light is applied for a duration in a range from 2 minutes to 5 minutes.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the light is applied for a duration in a range from 10 minutes to 25 minutes.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein the light is applied with an intensity in a range from 1,200 lux to 2,000 lux.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the dose comprises wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to increase a choroidal thickness of the subject’s eye.274916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-22111. The method of claim 1, wherein the dose comprises wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to decrease an axial length of the subject’s eye.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the dose comprises wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the subject.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the dose comprises wavelengths, a duration, and an intensity of light configured to decrease blood glucose, increase respiration, and increase mitochondrial function in the subject.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein an intensity of the dose is ramped up while applying the dose of light.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein an intensity of the dose is ramped down while applying the dose of light.

16. The method of claim 1, further comprising administering a supplement to the subject before applying the dose of light, the supplement comprising at least one of beetroot juice, watermelon juice, green tea extract, omega-3 fatty acids, or curcumin.

17. A method for applying photobiomodulation light therapy to a subject, the method comprising: applying a dose of light to at least one of a skull-related region, through a nose, or to an eyelid of a subject; detecting an effect of the applied dose of light on a biological characteristic of the subject; and adjusting the dose based on the detected effect.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein: the dose of light is applied to a first side of the subject’s head; and the effect is detected on a second side of the subject’s head.284916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-22119. The method of claim 17, further comprising using artificial intelligence or machine learning to track doses applied to the subject and the effect of the doses on the subject.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising using the artificial intelligence or the machine learning to provide a dose application schedule.

21. A photobiomodulation system comprising: a light source configured to apply light to a subject; a sensor configured to detect a biological characteristic of the subject; and a controller coupled to the light source and the sensor, the controller configured to adjust a dose applied by the light source based on a reading from the sensor.

22. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the light source comprises a halogen configured to emit white light.

23. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the light source comprises an LED configured to emit red light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 700 nm.

24. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the sensor is configured to detect at least one of axial length of an eye, choroidal thickness of an eye, adenosine triphosphate level, or pupil diameter.

25. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the sensor comprises an Optical Low Coherence Reflectometry (OLCR) sensor.

26. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the sensor comprises an Optical Coherence Tomography (OTC) sensor.

27. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the dose in real-time as the light source applies light to the subject.

28. The photobiomodulation system of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to adjust a subsequent dose of light applied to the subject based on a previous dose of light applied to the subject by the light source.294916-3357-8338UDocket No. P321648.WO.01 506327-22129. A photobiomodulation apparatus comprising: a device housing; a light source disposed within the device housing and configured to apply a dose of light to at least one of a temporal region, through a nose, or to an eyelid of a subject; a sensor disposed within the device housing and configured to detect a biological characteristic of the subject; and a strap configured to retain the device housing relative to a head of the subject.

30. The photobiomodulation apparatus of claim 29, wherein the light source is configured to be positioned on a first side of the head of the subject and the sensor is configured to be positioned on a second side of the head of the subject.

31. The photobiomodulation apparatus of claim 29, wherein the device housing comprises: a first device sub-housing at least partially surrounding the light source; and a second device sub-housing at least partially surrounding the sensor, wherein the light source and the sensor are coupled through wires in the strap.

32. The photobiomodulation apparatus of claim 29, wherein the light source is configured to emit light having wavelengths in a range from 600 nm to 900 nm.

33. The photobiomodulation apparatus of claim 29, further comprising a controller disposed within the device housing and configured to adjust the dose of light to be applied by the light source based on the sensor.304916-3357-8338U

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