Light on the brain: could a simple device sharpen your mind?
NCT ID NCT02817061
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether shining near-infrared light on the head (called transcranial photobiomodulation) can improve thinking, memory, and mood in healthy adults. Eighty volunteers aged 18-25 or 65-85 received the light treatment or a placebo. The goal was to see if this safe, non-invasive approach could enhance cognitive function, measured by computer-based tests.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- near-infrared light (transcranial photobiomodulation via Omnilux device)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to boost memory and focus in healthy people.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small study in healthy volunteers, not patients. The effects may be small or not real, and results may not apply to people with cognitive problems.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Early phase 1
The earliest testing in people: a first look at safety, in a very small group.
- Participants
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80 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Mar 2018
- Finished
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Sep 2019
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 85 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Age: 18-25 or 65-85 * Women of child-bearing potential, must use a double-barrier method for birth control (e.g. condoms with spermicide) if sexually active during the study and for 30 days post treatment of any kind. * Subject Informed Consent obtained in writing in compliance with local regulations prior to enrollment into this study. * The subject (and caregiver, if applicable) is willing to participate in this study for at least 12 weeks. Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to speak or read English (necessary for cognitive testing software use). * Pregnancy or lactation * History of stroke or traumatic brain injury * Substance dependence or abuse in the past 6 months * Diagnosis with major psychiatric disease (Psychotic disorder or psychotic episode, bipolar affective disorder) * Diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition (autism or ADHD) * A traumatic event that resulted in PTSD * Any unstable medical illness (defined as any medical illness which has not been well-controlled with standard-of-care medications) * A significant skin condition (i.e., hemangioma, scleroderma, rash, open wound) or medical implant (e.g. metal plate, implantable shunt or valve) on the head. * Inability to understand or participate in the consent and performance of the study. * Those with Parkinson's Disease, End Stage Renal Disease, and/or End Stage Liver Disease
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States