Researchers at the VA Boston Healthcare System are exploring the effects of light therapy on brain function in Veterans suffering from Gulf War Illness. The study involves Veterans wearing helmets equipped with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that administer red and near-infrared light to the scalp and nostrils, potentially enhancing blood flow and mitochondrial function in the brain. Initial findings have shown improvements in cognitive abilities and reductions in PTSD symptoms among participants. As part of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 160 Gulf War Veterans will receive either the actual LED therapy or a sham treatment. Future trials are also planned to investigate its effectiveness for traumatic brain injury and sleep issues in Veterans. Lead investigator Dr. Margaret Naeser believes this research could expand the applications of LED therapy beyond military injuries to a range of neurological conditions.