In this study, we show that red and near-infrared light (620–820 nm) directly modulates the
activity of the mitochondrial BKCa potassium channel in glioblastoma cells. Using patch-
clamp recordings, we demonstrate that light-dependent effects are linked to the redox state
of the respiratory chain, most likely mediated by cytochrome c oxidase (COX).
Our results reveal a new mechanism connecting: photobiomodulation, mitochondrial redox
regulation and ion channel activity. This finding opens new perspectives for non-
pharmacological modulation of mitochondrial function with potential cytoprotective
applications.
bioRxiv preprint (not peer-reviewed) by Piotr Bednarczyk, Joanna Lewandowska, Bogusz
Kulawiak and Adam Szewczyk
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.04.02.716077
