03/09/2026
Professor Glen Jeffery, Professor of Neuroscience at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology has been researching the relationship between light, mitochondria and the aging retina for more than 10 years.
The retina is one of the most energy-hungry tissues in the body and Professor Jeffery’s research suggests that the wavelengths of light we expose our eyes to may influence how well these tiny cellular “powerhouses” called mitochondria function.
Prof Jeffery has helped design on of our red light therapy glasses called Eyepower red light therapy glasses (see our website naturaleyecare.com.au). Let us know if you have any questions about whether these glasses are suitable for you.
Takeaway notes are:
• Morning light may be particularly important for supporting mitochondrial function in the eye
• Just a few minutes of red/long-wavelength light has been shown in research to temporarily improve aspects of visual performance
• These effects appear to be temporary, meaning ongoing exposure may be important
• Incandescent light contains much more long-wavelength light than modern LEDs
• The balance between different wavelengths of indoor lighting may matter for our eyes and overall biology
• Natural daylight provides a broad spectrum of wavelengths that artificial lighting can't fully replicate
• When it comes to light therapy, dose and wavelength matter — more light isn't necessarily better
• The research highlights why our modern indoor lighting environment deserves more attention
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