The Sun and the Brain: The Influence of Near-Infrared Radiation

The sun, the radiant star at the center of our solar system, profoundly affects life on Earth in myriad ways. One intriguing aspect is its potential influence on the human brain, especially when considering the permeability of the brain to near-infrared (NIR) radiation. This concept becomes particularly compelling when we look at the functionality of the fNIRS (Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy) method.

The Permeability of the Brain to NIR

The human brain is not an impenetrable fortress. Certain types of radiation, specifically near-infrared radiation, can traverse the protective barrier of the skull to reach the cortical surface of the brain. This phenomenon serves as the basis for fNIRS, a non-invasive imaging technique that measures brain activity. By detecting changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin using NIR light, fNIRS can provide insights into brain functionality.

The Sun’s NIR and Its Potential Impacts

The sun emits a broad spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, spanning from ultraviolet (UV) to visible to infrared (IR) wavelengths. The infrared portion of this spectrum can be further divided into near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and far-infrared (FIR).

Sun’s Near-Infrared Emission: The sun emits a significant amount of near-infrared (NIR) radiation. In fact, about half of the solar energy arriving at the Earth’s surface is in the form of NIR. This encompasses the 650 nm to 1000 nm range, which is the same range used in fNIRS.

fNIRS typically operates in the 650 nm to 1000 nm range, with specific wavelengths around 760 nm and 850 nm being commonly used to differentiate between deoxygenated and oxygenated hemoglobin.

Given the overlap in wavelengths, the NIR wavelengths used in fNIRS indeed correspond with a portion of the sun’s IR emission. Could the consistent exposure to sunlight, particularly its NIR component, influence brain activity or even broader cognitive processes?

While fNIRS demonstrates the brain’s permeability to NIR, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the sun’s NIR radiation has a direct and significant impact on brain activity. The conditions under which fNIRS operates are controlled and specific, differing from the broad spectrum of sunlight. However, this doesn’t negate the possibility of indirect effects.

Headwear, depending on its material and thickness, can reduce the amount of near-infrared (NIR) light that reaches the scalp and, subsequently, the brain. Wool hats can block a significant portion of NIR light. Depending on the thickness and weave, they can block anywhere from 70% to 90% of NIR light. A thick cotton hat might block around 50% to 70% of NIR light. The range varies with the thickness and tightness of the weave. Materials like polyester or nylon might block anywhere from 30% to 60% of NIR light. This number can vary significantly based on the specifics of the material and its construction.

Broader Implications and Considerations

Sunlight undeniably has various effects on human physiology and psychology. It regulates our circadian rhythms, impacts mood through the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, and aids in the synthesis of vitamin D in our skin. While it’s crucial not to conflate these effects directly with NIR permeability, it’s worth considering that our evolutionary journey under the sun has, in all likelihood, intertwined our biology with its radiant output in complex ways.

The fact that techniques like fNIRS can measure brain activity by capitalizing on the brain’s permeability to NIR does underline a fascinating dimension of our relationship with the sun. It invites further research into understanding how the sun’s myriad spectra, including NIR, might subtly interplay with our neurobiology.

While the direct influence of the sun’s NIR on brain activity remains an area ripe for exploration, there’s no denying that our star has a profound, multifaceted impact on our lives, well beyond just lighting up our days.