Fullerene-Filtered Light Spectrum and Fullerenes Modulate Emotional and Pain Processing in Mice

Jelena Lazovic,Ivana Stankovic,Djuro Koruga,Valentina Matovic,Zorana Jovic,Marija Slavkovic,Jernej Hren,Martin Gajdoš,Lydia M Zopf

doi:10.3390/sym13112004

Abstract

The most symmetric molecule, Buckminster fullerene C60, due to its unique properties, has been intensively studied for various medical and technological advances. Minimally invasive and minimally toxic treatments hold great promise for future applications. With this in mind, this research exploited the physical properties of fullerene molecules for potential therapeutic effects. Pristine fullerenes have peak absorbance in the 380–500 nm range, making them an attractive violet-blue light filter. Since spectral quality of light can affect behavior, this research used resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs fMRI) and behavioral testing to directly evaluate the effects of fullerene-filtered light on brain processing and behavior in mice. The same method was used to study if hydroxyl fullerene water complexes (3HFWC), with or without fullerene-filtered light, modulated brain processing. A month-long, daily exposure to fullerene-filtered light led to decreased activation of the brain area involved in emotional processing (amygdala). Water supplemented with 3HFWC resulted in an activation of brain areas involved in pain modulation and processing (periaqueductal gray), and decreased latency to first reaction when tested with a hot plate. The combination of fullerene-filtered light with 3HFWC in drinking water led to restored sensitivity to a hot plate and activation of brain areas involved in cognitive functions (prelimbic, anterior cingulate and retrosplenial cortex). These results uncovered the potential of fullerene-filtered light to impact emotional processing and modulate pain perception, indicating its further use in stress and pain management.

Highlights

Since increased light intensity in the blue region, as well as absence of blue light from the spectrum, can modulate emotional processing and lead to depression, it was hypothesized that a reduction of blue light using a fullerene filter will have positive effects on behavior
Exposure to fullerene-filtered light, led to decreased activation of the amygdala, suggesting it could be beneficial for a number of disorders associated with its increased activation
A score was given, 1 = nestlet not noticeably touched, 2 = nestlet partially torn (50–90% remaining intact), 3 = nestlet mostly shredded, but not identifiable nest, 4 = an identifiable nest, 5 = a nearly perfect nest in the shape of a cocoon with walls and partial or complete roof

Summary

Introduction

Since the discovery of the icosahedral form of carbon [1], fullerenes have attracted considerable interest in many fields of research, including biomedical applications. Their unique carbon cage structure, potential to readily react with free oxygen radicals and peak absorption in the UV-blue range makes them suitable for various purposes including drug delivery, antioxidants, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory as well as defense against UVradiation [2,3,4,5,6,7]. The widespread biomedical application of fullerenes began with the advent of a hydroxylated form of fullerene [8] and water-soluble fullerenes [9]. The addition of more hydroxyl groups and water molecules made polyhydroxylated fullerene [8] highly water soluble [10]

Results

Discussion

Conclusion