Brain PBM and Post-Chemotherapy Cognitive Impairment (CRCI) | Vielight Neuro
This article is for educational purposes only and summarizes findings from an independent published clinical study with the Vielight Neuro. It does not provide medical advice. Vielight products are classified as general wellness devices by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI).
Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), colloquially known as “chemobrain,” affects a significant portion of cancer survivors. Characterized by deficits in executive function, memory, and processing speed, CRCI can persist long after the conclusion of primary treatment.
A recent pilot study published in Supportive Care in Cancer (Godaert et al., 2026) investigates the potential role of Transcranial Photobiomodulation (tPBM) as a non-invasive intervention for this condition. The study utilized the Vielight Neuro Duo 4 to deliver targeted near-infrared light to the brain’s default mode network.
Flowchart of the population included in the study
Study Design and Parameters
The researchers conducted a prospective trial to measure changes in perceived cognitive function among women with a history of intravenous chemotherapy and persistent cognitive complaints.
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Sample Size: n = 31 female participants (Mean Age: 52.1 years).
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Intervention: Vielight Neuro Duo 4 in Gamma mode (810nm, pulsed at 40 Hz).
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Protocol: One 20-minute session per week for a minimum of 10 weeks.
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Primary Endpoint: Change in total score on the FACT-Cog (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognitive Function) version 3.
Data Summary: Observed Outcomes
The study reported a statistically significant increase in cognitive function scores following the 10-week intervention period.
FACT-Cog Score Progression
The FACT-Cog is a validated patient-reported outcome measure where higher scores indicate better perceived cognitive function and quality of life.
| Metric | Pre-Treatment (Mean) | Post-Treatment (Mean) | Statistical Significance |
| Total FACT-Cog Score | 63.3 +/- 19.8 | 101.2 +/- 20.1 | p < 0.001 |
Brain PBM Mechanisms
Mechanism of Action in PBM
The study discusses several biological pathways through which 810nm near-infrared light may support neural recovery:
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Mitochondrial Support: PBM is thought to stimulate Cytochrome c Oxidase (CCO), potentially increasing ATP production and supporting cellular repair in neurons affected by chemotherapy-induced oxidative stress.
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Neural Oscillations: The use of a 40 Hz (Gamma) pulse rate aims to support the synchronization of brain rhythms associated with high-level cognitive processing and memory.
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Network Modulation: By targeting the nodes of the Default Mode Network (DMN), tPBM may help address the functional connectivity disruptions often seen in CRCI patients.
