Mid-infrared photons enhance mitochondrial ATP synthesis

Abstract

Mitochondrial ATP production is essential as the primary energy source for intracellular metabolic pathways. Growing evidence suggests that disruptions in mitochondrial energy supply are at the root of various diseases, particularly impacting organs such as the heart and central nervous system. Various interventions have been proposed to address mitochondrial dysfunction, photobiomodulation therapy within the near-infrared range has emerged as a promising approach. However, the effects of mid-infrared (MIR) photons on mitochondrial function are not yet fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of highly absorbed infrared photons from mitochondria on ATP synthesis in real time, and the results demonstrate that the MIR photons at 8.3 µm exhibit unique significantly enhance ATP synthesis in a short period of time. However, prolonged exposure was observed to decrease mitochondrial biogenesis, but increasing cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) enzyme activity. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the specific photons may resonate with the amino acids of H61 and H378 that linked to heme α , leading to an increase in water molecules within the H proton-conducting channel of CcO, and this phenomenon could potentially boost the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation. This study emphasizes the critical significance of the frequency and timing of MIR photons in future endeavors aimed at improving mitochondrial function and ATP production.