Far-infrared irradiation restores mitochondrial dynamics to ameliorate ischemic stroke

Far-infrared irradiation exhibits promise in chronic diseases, and its role in ischemic stroke specifically in modulating mitochondrial dynamics remains unknown. This study explored the neuroprotective effects of far-infrared irradiation using a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model and oxygen-glucose deprivation-injured neuronal cells. In middle cerebral artery occlusion rats, daily 30-minute far-infrared irradiation treatment reduced infarct volume, alleviated cerebral edema, and improved neurological function. Proteomic analysis identified far-infrared irradiation-mediated upregulation of eight proteins, including the mitochondrial fusion regulator optic atrophy 1. In oxygen-glucose deprivation-exposed cells, far-infrared irradiation restored mitochondrial membrane potential, and enhanced fusion via optic atrophy 1 induction. Mechanistically, far-infrared irradiation stabilized mitochondrial dynamics by boosting optic atrophy 1 expression, thereby reducing oxidative stress and maintaining energy production. Optic atrophy 1 knockdown partly abolished the protective effects of far-infrared irradiation therapy. These results establish far-infrared irradiation as a non-pharmacological intervention targeting mitochondrial redox homeostasis in ischemic stroke, offering a novel therapeutic avenue for cerebrovascular disorders.