Light for life: defining how light affects development and function of the brain and sensory systems.

Our aim is to understand how light (wavelength, intensity and exposure time) affects the development of the brain and sensory systems already during fetal stages, and future function.

To address this, we will use mouse and chick as model systems under various light conditions or genetically lacking specific light receptors (Opsin 3, 4 and 5) expressed in the nervous system.

It is a fact that suboptimal lighting conditions increase the risk of developing some neurological and mental disorders, such as Alzheimer's, bipolar syndrome and autism.

Thus, knowledge of how light affects the development and function of the brain is important, especially in areas with large differences in daylight over the year and for preterm infants.

Our results might contribute to guidelines for optimal light exposure for fetuses, preterm infants and young children, with the possibility of limiting the risk of certain neurological and mental disorders later in life, which would be internationally pioneering.