This episode is from a research article titled "Illuminating Cognitive Performance: Assessing the Role of Transcranial Photobiomodulation in Augmenting Cognition," published in MILITARY MEDICINE in 2025. This study investigates the use of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM), a noninvasive technique utilizing near-infrared light, to potentially improve cognitive performance. Using a small sample of eight predominantly female participants, the researchers compared a tPBM group to a sham group across various cognitive assessments and psychological measures. Key findings include statistically significant improvements in processing speed (Reaction Time) and plasticity for the tPBM group on the Brain Gauge test, as well as enhanced working memory on high-load orientation tasks. Furthermore, the tPBM group demonstrated greater consistency and a significant increase in pupil dilation from session one to session two, suggesting an effect on sustained attention and the underlying neural systems. The authors conclude that tPBM shows promise for enhancing cognitive function, especially under high cognitive demand, and recommend further research with larger samples, particularly for military and clinical applications.

https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usaf227