The inhibitory and inactivating effects of visible light on SARS-CoV-2: A narrative update

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Prior to the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, the germicidal effects of visible light (λ = 400 – 700 nm) were well known. This review provides an overview of new findings that suggest there are direct inactivating effects of visible light – particularly blue wavelengths (λ = 400 – 500 nm) – on exposed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virions, and inhibitory effects on viral replication in infected cells. These findings complement emerging evidence that there may be clinical benefits of orally administered blue light for limiting the severity of COVID-19. Possible mechanisms of action of blue light (e.g., regulation of reactive oxygen species) and important mediators (e.g., melatonin) are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100187
JournalJournal of Photochemistry and Photobiology
Volume15
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2023

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The inhibitory and inactivating effects of visible light on SARS-CoV-2: A narrative update'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this