Influence of Linearly Polarized Near-Infrared Irradiation on Deformability of Human Stored Erythrocytes

Objective: To investigate the influence of linearly polarized near-infrared irradiation using the Super Lizer™ on deformability of human erythrocytes. Background Data: Not only low-powered laser but also linearly polarized near-infrared beams have some biostimulation effects on various tissues. There were some reports of erythrocyte deformability improved by low-powered He-Ne laser irradiation.Materials and Methods: Human erythrocyte samples stored for three weeks were adjusted to 30% hematocrit. Erythrocyte deformability presented as the filter filtration rate was measured. Results: There was no difference of the filter filtration rate between control group without irradiation and the group of 125 mJ/cm² exposure level at a wavelength of 830 nm. However, the groups of 625 and 1,250 mJ/cm² exposure levels at a wavelength of 830 nm showed higher filter filtration rates compared to the control group. Conclusion: Linearly polarized near-infrared irradiation in a range of 625-1,250 mJ/cm² exposure level at a wavelength of 830 nm improved deformability of human stored erythrocytes.