We are constantly pushing the envelope to come up with methods to improve our results clinically. We think that our new cytokine formula may be such a game changer. Our new formula makes use of Velvet Deer Antler. But the formula is much different from those formulas out there both in strength and the formula itself. It is a propriety mix.   The above illustration represents the growing portion of the antler. Deer Antler Velvet has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years but has recently gained popularity in Western medicine. Deer antler can enhance immune system function, improving athletic performance, increasing muscle recovery, enhance sexual function, improve disease recovery, enhance cardiovascular function, and a host of other conditions. Deer Antler Velvet covers the growing bone and cartilage that develops into deer antlers. The growing antler contains a number of necessary cells, including fibroblasts, chondroblasts, chondrocytes and osteocytes. The tips of the antlers begin as undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells which are transformed into cartilage. Later, the cartilage is turned to bone, due to the effects of testosterone. Deer antler velvet is antler that is still in its cartilaginous stage.  One of the problems with Velvet Deer Antler is the purity and concentration of the product. Our antler product is sourced from a very reliable source. Typically, there is a concentration of 1500 mg of velvet extract per bottle. Honestly, that will have some effects but it is not exactly what we are looking for. We have sourced a concentration of 4500 mg of Velvet Deer Antler per bottle. This concentration would not be legal for any professional athlete and thus we would not use it on them. Typically, these higher concentrations will help balance hormones and promote tissue repair. In addition to this we have actually added certain supplements to this very potent formula. These supplements will increase stem cell efficiency and output from the bone marrow. This combination is totally unique to our practice and network and it is proprietary in nature.  WHAT ARE THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF VELVET ANTLER? The above diagram gives some idea of the many benefits of deer extract. An important concept that is a common theme of many research papers is that the combination of all components of velvet antler provides a synergistic effect that is greater than the total effect that would be achieved by the separate use of each of its individual constituents. That means that if velvet antler is broken down into its constituents that are used separately, their combined effect is significantly less than the effect realized when the nutrients are provided in the naturally combined form of velvet antler. In summary, the effect of the complete product is greater than the summed effect of all components. Let us take a better look at exactly what is found in the antler products. Most of the antler product consists of protein. The active ingredients include collagen, lipids, glycosaminoglycans, minerals, and various growth factors.  We will take a look at the major subgroups of components. The first component to take a look at are the glycosaminoglycans              GLYCOSAMINOGLYCANS Glycosaminoglycans are complex carbohydrates. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), have widespread functions within the body. GAGs play a critical role in Regenerative Medicine. They play a crucial role in the cell signaling process, including regulation of cell growth, proliferation, promotion of cell adhesion, anticoagulation, and wound repair. They are an integral component of what is called the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the non-cellular component present within all tissues and organs, and provides not only essential physical scaffolding for the cellular constituents but also initiates crucial biochemical and biomechanical cues that are required for tissue morphogenesis, differentiation and homeostasis. Research has shown GAG’s exist in velvet antler in several forms including: Chondroitin Sulphate – a carbohydrate that helps protect and rebuild degenerating cartilage and is regarded as a potent anti-inflammatory agent Glycosphingolipids – are compounds involved with growth and metabolism of cells and with memory and learning Glucosamine Sulphate – is a component of Chondroitin Sulphate and is a major component of cartilage and synovial fluid Hyaluronic acid – a substance that binds cartilage cells together and lubricates joints. It also acts as a signaling molecule in many biological processes. Phospholipids – the major structural lipid of most cell membranes  Here is a good illustration of the Extra Cellular Matrix. It is the substance between the cells.     Antlers grow by endochondral ossification, the same way that long bones do. A major non-collagenous protein, proteoglycan, a protein substituted with glycosaminoglycan chains, occurs in the cartilaginous tissue of antler. While its use in the antler is not understood, it has been shown that proteoglycan in cartilage, also called aggrecan, regulates differentiation of chondrocytes and may control calcium concentration in the growth plates where endochondral ossification occurs. This may have important implications when we are treating joints with regenerative medicine.   More importantly, the next two illustration shows the ramifications of the Extra Cellular Matrix and repair of various tissues. We can see why enhancing the Extra Cellular Matrix is so important in Regenerative Medicine. We can see that these represent the pillars of regenerative cell therapy. There are few if any other products which have these effects on the extracellular matrix. This is certainly a huge benefit that comes with the Velvet Deer Antler product.   The Glycosaminoglycans have a hand in all of the above repair processes. Most products are only addressing the cellular portions of repair while the antler products are more comprehensive in their approach. The next illustration shows how the Glycosaminoglycans are involved in the new field of tissue engineering. In the case of tissue engineering we call the synthetic ECM a scaffold.   GROWTH FACTORS: THE CLONES OF WHAT STEM CELLS PRODUCE When we look velvet antler growth factors we see a list of who’s who in the growth factor universe. Growth factors, which are generally considered as a subset of cytokines, refer to the diffusible signaling proteins that stimulate cell growth, differentiation, survival, inflammation, and tissue repair. The major growth factors which are found in deer antler include Insulin Like growth factors (IGF-1), Bone morphogenetic growth factors (BMPs), Transforming growth factor family (TGF), Fibroblast growth factor (FGF), Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Epidermal growth factor (EGF), Interleukins, and a variety of other factors. When looking at the various growth factors we realize that this appears to be similar to what is found in a Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) product, and for that matter stem cells themselves release. The following shows some of the major growth factors found in the antler product.             Another aspect of deer antler deals with its Amino acid contents. Remember that amino acids are natures building blocks. Amino acids, often referred to as the building blocks of proteins, are compounds that play many critical roles in your body. They’re needed for vital processes like the building of proteins and synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. These are broken down to essential and non-essential amino acids. Another type of amino acid is the free form amino acid. These amino acids aren't joined together with any other amino acids in a protein 'string'. This allows the individual amino acids to be instantly absorbed and used by the body without digestion. Of all the growth factors, the most consequential might be IGF-1. IGF-1 is a banned substance in the world of professional sports. The precursor of IGF-1 is Human Growth Hormone (HGH). IGF-1 is actually the active form of HGH. It is considered performance enhancing. In the smaller doses this is typically not an issue but in the higher doses we are using this is a problem and across the board we will not give this formula to any athlete in the high school, college, or the professional sports arena. Putting this aside, why do we like IGF-1? We can see some of the benefits below. Perhaps more importantly, we need to look at IGF-1 on the basis of cell biology. IGF-1 has been shown to enhance the migratory response of stem cells. We must realize that the IGF-1 supplied by deer antler is a natural form. It seems to be safer than taking the synthetic anabolic agents which can have disastrous consequences to one’s health. The following diagram is somewhat complicated but we see the importance of IGF-1. It will interact with the stem cell and cause the cell to go on to repair tissue or differentiate into that tissue.       IGF-1 and the other growth factors can also result in a number of other health benefits. These extra health benefits may include preservation of a person’s muscle mass, improving the functioning of the immune system, increasing bone density thus helping to improve Osteoporosis, a valid treatment for fibromyalgia conditions, and lastly it may help in weight loss. The bottom line is that these growth factors are all very important in treating damaged tissue. This tissue could be a tendon, a joint, or muscle. Remember, with the antler we are complimenting the growth factors that are supplied by the stem cells and the Platelet Rich Plasma. Also, by taking these supplements on a daily basis we continue the repair process. The one small caveat that we follow is that in those patients who have a history of certain cancers we will typically recommend a lower dose of the antler product. We should also keep in mind that antler products also contain small amounts of the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen. In the right doses these are also important for regeneration.   Another related factor found in the antler is Prostaglandins. They are substances with varying physiologic effects, acting as a vasodepressor, smooth muscle contraction or relaxation, inflammation and uterine stimulation. As components of deer antler velvet, prostaglandins may assist in the capacity of the extract to reduce the swelling associated with arthritis and injury. They also have physiological responses in lipid metabolism, as seen in the cholesterol-lowering effects of deer antler velvet on laboratory animals.   AMINO ACIDS Velvet antler contains many different types of amino acids. Amino acids, often referred to as the building blocks of proteins, are compounds that play many critical roles in your body. Amino acids are organic compounds composed of nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, along with a variable side chain group. Your body needs 20 different amino acids to grow and function properly. Though all 20 of these are important for your health, only nine amino acids are classified as essential. These are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Unlike nonessential amino acids, essential amino acids are those that can’t be made by your body and must be obtained through your diet. Another type of amino acid is a Free-form amino acid. This refers to single amino acid that is already in a pre-digested form and ready to be used by your body. Some nutritional products, especially amino acid blends, contain whole proteins and large peptides (chains of amino acids), which the body must first break down into smaller peptides and individual amino acids before use. For faster utilization and better bioavailability, look for free-form amino acids. We can see that all the various different type of amino acids works synergistically. They all have their purpose.   WHAT SUPPLEMENTS ARE ADDED TO THE FORMULA TO ENHANCE THE EFFECTS?   In addition to the Velvet Deer Antler which provides all the aforementioned compounds. There are a host of other compounds which enhance the efficacy of the product.  These include a natural matrix of herbs bounded by research and science to help one’s stem cells become more active and body supportive. The following compounds highlight these ingredients.   FUCOIDAN – found in the cell walls of certain seaweed species that is has been used medicinally for a wide variety of health purposes. Okinawa inhabitants have a diet rich in Wakame seaweed, which contains the highest concentrations of Fucoidan. Okinawa is also known for its high concentration of centenarians (people who are at least a century old), which researchers believe is linked to their fucoidan-rich diet. The anti-aging effects are associated with Fucoidan's remarkable ability to facilitate tissue regeneration, immune function as well as improving cell-to- cell communication. Not only is fucoidan known for its anti-aging effects, it is also believed to combat cancer, metabolic syndrome and other degenerative disorders. With stem cell therapy, there is always the risk that the adult stem cells could migrate to other areas of the body unintentionally. However, the daily use of fucoidan has been proven to increase mobilization of stem cells to the appropriate area/ site of injury. Not only can fucoidan point the stem cells in the proper direction, it has also shown to improve the stem cells' survival during the differentiation process.   PTEROSTILBENE is a stilbene molecule and demethylated derivative of resveratrol ( it is more bioavailable than resveratrol) that is found in antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, cranberries and grapes. These all help to slow down the aging process. It is an antioxidant that helps fight free radical damage. It is known to stimulate a series of pathways in the body called Sirtuin gene pathways. The sirtuin genes have effects on a variety of other pathways in the body. Ultimately, the Sirtuins are involved in the regulation of the mitochondria and subsequent ATP production. Research has shown Pterostilbene protects against memory loss, high cholesterol, high blood pressure levels and even certain types of cancer. CARNOSINE is an important nonessential amino acid that helps support brain, heart, and eye health. It offers antioxidant protection from free radicals and oxidative stress, boosts endurance, aids in the recovery process, and offers electrolyte support. BLACK RASPBERRY EXTRACT, one of the least known, but yet strongest anti-oxidants that insures chromosomes retain their health and rebuild themselves to optimum health. RHODIOLA – an adaptogenic herb that can elevate your mood and mental stamina, reduce the stress hormone, cortisol and fight depression due to its protective effects on key mood neurotransmitters. Rhodiola rosea extracts have recently demonstrated its anti-aging, anti-inflammation, immuno-stimulating, DNA repair and anti-cancer effects in different model systems. An adaptogenic herb helps the body adapt to and resist physical, chemical, and environmental stress.   ASTRAGIN – a 100% natural compound which is patented and promotes a healthy gut lining reducing inflammation in the intestinal lining and increasing absorption of nutrients. AstraGin has the ability to increase the assimilation of important amino acids which increase nitric oxide levels in the human body, making it the perfect performance enhancer when taken pre-workout.  Higher levels of nitric oxide result in enhanced blood flow to the muscle which leads to better pumps, muscular contraction, and improved nutrient transportation. AstraGin also aids in glucose absorption so having this pre-workout ensures that you have sufficient energy levels whilst you train.    THE FINAL QUESTION HOW DOES THE ANTLER PRODUCT GET TO WHERE IT IS NEEDED? One could have the absolute best formula on paper but the question is will it work? When we evaluate medications and supplements a very important aspect to consider is what we call the pharmacokinetics of the product. This concerns the science of how the drug moves around in the body. Unfortunately, on paper many compounds seem very promising but in real life are a failure. The main reason for this is that they cannot be absorbed by the body. The mode of absorption of the antler product is what is referred to as sublingual. This means it is absorbed under the tongue. This is many times a very effective mode of absorption. It by-passes the gut and goes directly into the blood stream where it is needed. The components are not broken down. Also, in the saliva are very small particles called exosomes which can be considered a rising star in drug delivery. Saliva is a very rich source of exosomes. Thus, we have a very efficient method of delivering the velvet components in a safe and reliable manner.  If we were to undertake the task of trying to design a complete supplement to utilize in Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell therapy, Velvet Deer Antler would be at the top of our list. It has most of the ingredients needed for success. Furthermore, there is a very efficient way to deliver the goods to the cell where they are needed. Deer antler will not be the only modality we will use, but it certainly has an important place on our mantle. We are constantly working to push the envelope and I suspect more advances will come.   Thanks, JP

    NQO1 is a gene which controls the production of the enzyme NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1. The above diagram shows some of the many functions of the NQO1 pathway. We can see that there are three major pillars of health that NQO1 directly influences. These pillars include detoxification which entails the ratio of NAD to NADH, its ability as an antioxidant, and lastly how it helps to stabilize the P-53 gene. Detoxification and antioxidant activity go hand and hand. They are intertwined with each other. Each of these pillars have extreme importance for our health and well-being. The detoxification pillar is a very important aspect of NQO1 functions. Much of the detoxification deals with compounds called Quinones. Quinonoid compounds generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). Quinones are ubiquitous in nature and constitute an important class of naturally occurring compounds found in plants, fungi and bacteria. Human exposure to quinones therefore occurs via the diet, but also clinically or via airborne pollutants. For example, the quinones of hydrocarbons are prevalent as environmental contaminants and provide a major source of current human exposure to quinones. The inevitable human exposure to quinones, and the inherent reactivity of quinones, has stimulated substantial research on the chemistry and toxicology of these compounds. NQO1 is employed in the removal of a quinone from biological systems as a detoxification reaction:  NAD(P)H + a quinone → NAD(P)+ + a hydroquinone. The hydroquinone is excreted. This reaction ensures complete oxidation of the substrate without the formation of semiquinones and reactive oxygen radicals that are deleterious to cells. The localization of NQO1 in epithelial and endothelial tissues of mice, rats and humans indicates their importance as detoxifying agents, since their location facilitates exposure to compounds entering the body. In addition to the detoxification, NQO1 helps produce NAD+ which in its own right is very important.   The ratio of NAD+/NADH is of extreme importance. We are well aware of the importance of NAD+ for our body. NAD+ is instrumental in the production of ATP which is the body’s energy currency. However, NAD+ is also used in a variety of biological processes in the body. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential pyridine nucleotide that serves as an essential cofactor and substrate for a number of critical cellular processes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production, DNA repair, epigenetically modulated gene expression, intracellular calcium signaling, and immunological functions. NAD+depletion may occur in response to excessive DNA damage due to free radicals. This damage results in significant poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activation and a high turnover and subsequent depletion of NAD+. PARP is instrumental in DNA repair. Also, chronic immune activation and inflammatory cytokine production results in accelerated CD38 activity and subsequent decline in NAD+ levels.  We now think that the NAD+/NADH ratio may be as important if not more important than the levels of NAD+. One of the insights arising from the scientific studies of calorie restriction is that the ratio of NAD+ to NADH (NAD+/NADH ratio) might be important for the lifespan extension benefits. This ratio has been reported to decline with age, with NAD+ being decreased and NADH increased in older individuals. While boosting the amount of NAD+ has been getting a lot of attention, improving the ratio between NAD+ and NADH might be more significant than the amount of cellular NAD+ in isolation. In yeast experiments, calorie restriction decreases NADH much more dramatically than it affects NAD+. This decrease in NADH is important for enhancing lifespan, because, on its own, it increases activity of the NAD+ consuming enzymes that boost longevity processes (e.g., Sirtuins) and DNA repair (e.g. PARPs) in yeast. This is thought to occur because NADH is an inhibitor of these enzymes, so lowering it releases the inhibition. As an example, inducing the enzyme NQO1—an enzyme that uses NADH as an electron donor increases intracellular NAD+ levels because it shifts the NAD+/NADH redox ratio in favor of oxidation (NAD+). A side effect of this reaction is that intracellular NAD+ levels increase. Upregulation of the pathway that induces NQO1 occurs in calorie restriction and appears to be an important component of producing the benefits. We must remember that cellular levels of NAD+ are more important than the serum levels.  In review, what NQO1 does is convert NADH to NAD+ while at the same time it maintains a very delicate ratio of NAD/NADH. This ratio is not affected by dietary or IV intake. One important fact is that NQO1 will oxidize NADH to NAD+ and thus it increases NAD+ in the cell. HOW IS THE NQO1 PATHWAY REGULATED?  Another name for the NQO1 gene is the longevity gene.  NQO1, regulates the NAD+/NADH ratio in cells. NQO1 does this by oxidizing NADH to NAD+. During aging the ratio of NAD+ to NADH changes in part to a reduced level of the expression of NQO1. As we age the cells accumulate a type of protein called BET proteins. The BET proteins are Bromodomain and Extraterminal Proteins. They are referred to as epigenetic readers. The following diagram shows the various components involved in epigenetics, namely the writers, erasers, and readers all of which effect gene behavior.  In this case, the BET proteins will suppress the induction of the NQO1 gene. There is now much research looking for inhibitors of BET proteins for a variety of conditions including cancer.       Lowered levels of NQO1 will affect the amounts of a compound called Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator (PGC-1alpha). PGC-1a is a member of a family of transcription coactivators that plays a central role in the regulation of cellular energy metabolism. It is strongly induced by cold exposure, linking this environmental stimulus to adaptive thermogenesis. PGC-1alpha stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and promotes the remodeling of muscle tissue to a fiber-type composition that is metabolically more oxidative and less glycolytic in nature, and it participates in the regulation of both carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Oxidative metabolism produces far more ATP than the glycolytic type. It is highly likely that PGC-1alpha is intimately involved in disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiomyopathy. In particular, its regulatory function in lipid metabolism makes it an inviting target for pharmacological intervention in the treatment of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. PGC-1a is regulated by the oxidative state of the cell. NQO1 will regulate the PGC-1a levels by controlling the rate of PGC-1a degradation not its synthesis. Like many regulatory factors, PGC-1a has an extremely short half-life.  All of these extremely short-lived proteins are regulated by degradation rates, not synthesis rates. Higher levels of NQO1 shift the ratio of NAD+/NADH and protect proteins from being oxidized. PGC-1 plays an important role in regulating mitochondrial function. Higher levels of PGC-1a help prevent age related mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, it appears that under conditions of oxidative stress, such as with aging, NQO1 may be a major factor that controls the concentration of PGC-1a in the cell. PGC-1a is not some esoteric co factor, it is extremely important in many different functions as can be seen from the following diagram. PGC-1α is a transcriptional coactivator that is a central inducer of mitochondrial biogenesis in cells.      Thus, it appears that under conditions of oxidative stress, such as with aging, NQO1 may be a major factor that controls the concentration of PGC-1a in the cell.  WHAT ELSE DOES NQO1 STIMULATE?  NQO1 seems to have a significant effect on the P-53 gene. It helps to stabilize the P-53 gene. P-53 is many times referred to an the “Tumor Suppressor Gene”. It is a potent sentinel in the body looking for and destroying cells which may go on to tumor lines. It has the ability to fix DNA damage if it is not too severe or if too severe it will destroy the cell. The following diagram shows P-53 in action:   It is now thought that many cancers arise from a defect in the P-53 gene. It appears that the NQO1-dependent (ubiquitin-independent) pathway is the most important pathway for regulating p53 levels within the cell. Ubiquitin is a small protein that is found in almost all cellular tissues in humans and other organisms. It helps to regulate the processes of other proteins in the body. Through a process known as ubiquitination or ubiquitylation, a ubiquitin molecule can bind to a substrate protein, changing the way it functions. This can lead to a number of different outcomes. It is most widely recognized for its role in apoptosis of proteins, earning it the title of the molecular “kiss of death” for proteins, although it also plays a major part in several other cellular processes related to the regulation of proteins. If P-53 is working properly hopefully the chances of a cancer arising are significantly diminished. Treatment with curcumin augments the levels of P53 in tumor cell lines through incrementing its half-life in a NQO1 dependent manner. Curcumin treatment promotes the interaction between NQO1-p53.   HOW CAN WE INCREASE THE PRESENCE OF NQO1?  One statement that can be made across the board is that anything which increases the NRf2 pathway will increase the NQO1 gene action. The NRf2 pathway has a profound effect on the NQO1 gene. One can read my previous blogs concerning the NRf2 pathway. I call this pathway the thermostat of anti-inflammation. One of the important stimulators of the NRf2 pathway are ozone messengers which are produced by intravenous ozone such as is delivered by the EBO2 protocol. These messengers will allow the NRf2 to enter the nucleus and activate certain genes. Another offshoot of the EBO2 protocol is the use of photodynamic therapy which stimulated the NQO1 gene. Phototherapy also includes the stimulation of heat shock proteins which are encouraged by the exposure of UVA light.          Again, for those people unaware of the EBO2 protocol, it is a protocol which uses a dialysis filter, intravenous Ozone gas, and photo modulation. The following is a picture of the set up used in the EBO2 protocol:   Other compounds which seem to have stimulating influences on NQO1 include resveratrol, Pterostilbene, Taxifolin (also called dihydroquercetin), sulforaphane (broccoli), curcumin, and Fumaric acid derivatives. Another important supplement perhaps the most important, to stimulate the NQO1 gene is Beta-lapachone, a compound found in the bark of the South American Lapacho tree. It is a potent activator of the NQO1 gene and produces ROS in cancer cells, but reduces ROS in non-cancer cells. Beta-Lapachone is a NQO1 activator. In addition to stimulating the NQO1 gene it stimulates the NRf2 pathway which helps to lower inflammation. Beta-lapacho was very popular a number of years ago. It then seemed to lose it way. Now there is a resurgence in the use of Beta-lapachone on multiple fronts including clinical studies in a variety of universities. A few final thoughts, if a clinic is utilizing NAD+ but not stimulating the NQO1 pathway then they are behind the times. There are a number of clinics which like to dabble in utilizing NAD on their patients. Unfortunately, they are not aware of the basic science of NAD, its effect on senescent cells, methods allowing the body to handle NAD better, and the importance of the NQO1 gene. If you encounter a clinic which is “just” utilizing NAD without addressing these related matters, your best bet is to seek treatment elsewhere!! This will ensure you the best chance of success. It is all a matter of knowing the basic science of the various pathways and how these can be manipulated to the benefit of the patient.  The following illustration gives all the salient points about the NQO1 gene. There is a reason why this is called the Longevity Gene. The answers lie in the illustration. When all is said and done this seems to represent the essence of aging.   Thanks,   Dr. P    

The above was a recent headline. I know what my political persuasions are, and they should obviously never get in the way of science or the health of a patient. Furthermore, I always try to be non-political in my posts. I see that some members of the press have tried to ridicule President Trump for an idea of “getting light inside the body.” Here are the quotes attributed to the President: “Suppose that we hit the body with a tremendous, whether it’s ultraviolet or just very powerful light,” Trump said at the White House coronavirus press briefing, adding: “Supposing you brought the light inside the body, which you can do either through the skin or in some other way.” Well, low and behold, if reporters find this a ridiculous statement, then they need to do their homework and learn some science, and have a more analytical mind.I would like to mention a paper that was published a few years ago by Dr. Michael Hamblin. Michael Hamblin is a Principal Investigator at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine (see below) at Massachusetts General Hospital, an Associate Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Affiliated Faculty of Harvard-MIT Division of Health Science and Technology.The next insert is a copy of the title page of a paper written and published by Dr. Hamblin in 2017.We can see that the title of the article is Ultraviolet Irradiation of Blood: “The Cure that Time Forget”. As one can see we have a PHD from Harvard and MIT who is a main principle investigator at Harvard’s photomedicine center state that ultraviolet light to the blood is a cure that time forget. So, it seems that that President was not off the mark at all. I think he is owed an apology by those in the media and in the medical community who ridiculed him. I have been fortunate to meet Dr. Hamblin when we were both lecturing at a regenerative medicine meeting. I consider him one of the world’s experts on photo-therapy. I read the above article a few years ago and found it intriguing. There are many similar articles. In this article there is a discussion of the potential of Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation (UBI) as an alternative approach to current methods used to treat infections. It goes on to say that this therapy can also be an immune-modulating therapy and also as a method for normalizing blood parameters. The article states there is no resistance of microorganisms to UV irradiation. Low and mild doses of UV kill microorganisms by damaging the DNA, while any DNA damage in host cells can be rapidly repaired by DNA repair enzymes. Ultraviolet light when used for sterilization purposes causes the direct destruction of pathogens. Many people believe that this is also the mechanism of action for UBI which is absolutely not the case. It is the stimulation of the immune system and its various components that gives ultraviolet light therapy is effectiveness in addition to destroying the micro-organisms.The following diagram is from the article by Dr. Hamblin. It shows some of the various aspects of UBI on the immune system. This may be a complicated picture but when all is said and done it is stimulating the immune system in many different ways. It is somewhat complicated to the lay person.UBI appears to have three broadly different classes of effects on different blood components. In the case of various white blood cells which are called neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. UBI can activate phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is a process wherein a cell, in this case a type of white blood cell, binds to a microbe such as a bacteria or virus and engulfs it. UBI also increases the secretion of Nitric Oxide which stimulates the production of cells which can calm down an inflammatory reaction. By reducing the inflammatory response, we are lessening the effects of a “cytokine storm” as is often found in infections and seems to be the crux of many Covid-19 complications. The oxidative nature of UBI may have mechanisms in common with ozone therapy and other oxygen therapies. Namely, we are reducing the oxidative stress on the immune system. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body. Free radicals are oxygen-containing molecules with an uneven number of electrons. The uneven number allows them to easily react with other molecules. Free radicals can cause large chain chemical reactions in your body because they react so easily with other molecules. These reactions are called oxidation. They can be beneficial or harmfulThink of oxidative stress as synonymous with inflammation and inflammation is the root of most medical problems.Dr. Hamblin’s article is but one article concerning the use of light therapy. I think there is little doubt there is strong science behind the use of ultraviolet blood irradiation and for that matter phototherapy to treat a number of medical conditions. Although this seems like cutting edge therapy it is actually old. Ultraviolet blood irradiation (UBI) was extensively used in the 1940s and 1950s to treat many diseases including septicemia, pneumonia, tuberculosis, arthritis, asthma and even poliomyelitis. The early studies were carried out by several physicians in USA and published in the American Journal of Surgery. However, with the development of antibiotics, UBI use declined and it has now been called “the cure that time forgot”. Hopefully more research on various types of blood irradiation will be performed. I would also like to include a few slides from my lectures. These slides concern the use of phototherapy. The first slide is a summary of phototherapy.As we can see there are a myriad of beneficial aspect to light therapy. I will draw your attention to sentence six, “Whatever cells are designed to do will be improved by light therapy”. The next slide shows some of the many benefits of phototherapy in pictorial form.The takeaways from the above slide is that light therapy is intimately involved in cell energy production, positively impacts cellular repair and healing, stimulates the immune system. As President Trump said “GET THE LIGHT INSIDE THE BODY” and hopefully control the covid-19 virus. Certainly, no guarantees or cures but it might be a step in the right direction. Actually, we can take things to the next level by giving the patient certain medications which are called photosensitizers. Photosensitizers make light therapy work even better. However, this is a discussion for a different day. I will end this quick blog with a rather somber thought. Covid -19 is certainly a serious problem for our planet and I believe we will conquer it. I would like to present some information by the Rand Europe Think Tank. Unfortunately, there are much greater biological time bombs that may be facing us. One ticking time bomb we are facing is that of antibiotic resistance. Here is the chart of what we are facing, namely approximately 10,000,000 deaths per year caused by antibiotic resistance. It might just be that blood irradiation may save the day. Meantime, stay safe and get some sunshine which is a primitive form of blood irradiation.Thanks,Dr. P DEATHS PER YEAR SECONDARY TO ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE 2050 2050Thanks,- Dr. P