Supporting Brain Function with Targeted Technologies

How Advanced Therapies May Support Cognition When Used Strategically

Naturopath Jennifer Harrington explores how selected technologies may support brain function, energy, and recovery when used in the right context.

In Part 1, we explored how APOE4 is influenced by the environment, not just genetics.

In Part 2, we looked at how symptoms can begin to appear, and how nutrition and lifestyle form the foundation for change.

This is where Part 3 comes in.

Because once those foundations are in place, the next question becomes:

How can we support the brain more directly?

Technology: The Right Tool at the Right Time

At Mito Core, technology alone is not the starting point.

It’s layered on once we understand what is driving dysfunction.

When used appropriately, these therapies may support:

• cellular energy

• oxygen delivery

• circulation

• nervous system regulation

Oxygen and Brain Function

Reduced oxygen delivery and utilisation are common features in cognitive decline.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been studied for its potential aid in brain function, with research suggesting improvements in cerebral blood flow and cognition in some populations.

At Mito Core, where appropriate we incorporate air breaks within HBOT sessions to introduce brief changes in oxygen levels, mimicking the adaptive effects seen in intermittent hypoxic training, while maintaining the overall benefits of hyperbaric oxygen.

Intermittent hypoxic–hyperoxia training (IHHT), used in systems such as ReOxy, works differently but similarly trains the body to become more efficient at using oxygen.

Emerging research suggests IHHT may support:

• working memory and cognitive control

• vascular function and blood flow

• resilience to low-oxygen stress

These mechanisms are particularly relevant in individuals with a history of concussion, metabolic dysfunction or sleep apnoea where oxygen utilisation is impaired.

Light Therapy: Energy and Mood

Photobiomodulation (red and near-infrared light therapy) works at the level of the cellular bioenergetics/ mitochondria.

It supports:

• cellular energy production

• blood flow and circulation

• inflammation reduction

• cellular repair mechanisms

• oxidative stress reduction

These effects are not limited to one area of the body. Light therapy influences systemic physiology, particularly mitochondrial activity, circulation and inflammatory pathways, all of which are foundational to brain function.

Research shows that photobiomodulation enhances mitochondrial activity and reduces neuroinflammation, key mechanisms involved in cognitive performance and neurological health. 

In addition, studies have reported improvements in mood, anxiety and overall well-being, highlighting the close relationship between energy production, brain chemistry and emotional health.

High-Intensity PEMF: Supporting the Cellular Environment

At Mito Core, we utilise high-intensity, full-body pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy which works at a deeper physiological level.

PEMF may:

• enhance cellular metabolism and communication

• improve blood flow and circulation

• increase tissue oxygenation

• promote inflammatory balance

Clinically it is used to support the cellular environment in which the brain operates, particularly where energy, oxygenation and resilience are reduced.

Some studies have also demonstrated that PEMF can assist with recovery following neurological stress, influencing mood and cognitive performance.

Brain Entrainment and Stress Resilience

Alongside PEMF, we use technologies that work more directly with the nervous system: the iMRS brain entrainment system and also Vibrosound therapy.

These systems are designed to regulate brainwave activity and influence a shift into parasympathetic (rest-and-repair) states.

Research suggests potential benefits for:

• sleep quality

• stress reduction

• mood regulation

By helping the nervous system move out of a chronic stress response, these therapies may indirectly support cognitive clarity and capacity.

HOCATT and Toxic Load

Where toxicity is a contributing factor, such as mould exposure, environmental chemicals or heavy metals, cleaning up the body’s internal environment may play an important role in cognitive health.

The HOCATT system combines several elements: sauna therapy, ozone, carbonic acid and frequency specific microcurrent to help with circulation, lymphatic flow and sweating. These processes are part of the body’s natural ability to eliminate toxins.

While not a standalone solution, HOCATT can be a useful adjunct in individuals where toxic load is impacting energy, inflammation or cognitive function.

Bringing It All Together

Technology is powerful but more so when layered onto the right foundations.

Without addressing:

• nutrition

• sleep

• lifestyle

• emotional health

…the impact of devices will always be limited.

When used strategically, they could help overall recovery:

• enhance cellular function

• psycho-physical resilience

Final Thoughts

Across this series, one message remains consistent: APOE4 is not a fixed outcome.

It is influenced by the environment in which it exists.

Technologies when used well, may support the brain in doing what it is designed to do: 

adapt, repair and learn at its best.

References

• Dale Bredesen D. (2014). Reversal of cognitive decline: A novel therapeutic program. Aging (Albany NY), 6(9), 707–717.

Oxygen-Based Therapies (HBOT & IHHT)

• Hadanny, A., & Efrati, S. (2020). The hyperoxic–hypoxic paradox. Biomedicines, 8(12), 544.

• Efrati, S., et al. (2021). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases brain perfusion and improves cognitive function in patients with cognitive decline. Aging, 13(17).

• Serebrovska, T. V., et al. (2019). Intermittent hypoxia–hyperoxia training improves exercise tolerance and cognitive function in elderly individuals. Experimental Gerontology.

• Dudnik, E., et al. (2023). Intermittent hypoxia exposure and cognitive performance under stress conditions. Frontiers in Physiology.

Photobiomodulation (Red/Near-Infrared Light Therapy)

• Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics, 4(3), 337–361.

• Salehpour, F., et al. (2018). Photobiomodulation therapy for neurological disorders. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 85, 256–267.

• Naeser, M. A., et al. (2016). Improved cognitive function after photobiomodulation treatment. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery.

PEMF

• Ross, C. L., et al. (2015). Electromagnetic field therapy in neurological disorders. Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine.

• Pilla, A. A. (2013). Electromagnetic fields modulate nitric oxide signaling. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.

• Funk, R. H. W., et al. (2009). Electromagnetic effects—from cell biology to medicine. Progress in Histochemistry and Cytochemistry.

Brain Entrainment /Neuroacoustic Therapy 

• Huang, T. L., & Charyton, C. (2008). A comprehensive review of brainwave entrainment. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine.

• Garcia-Argibay, M., et al. (2019). Efficacy of binaural beats in cognition, anxiety, and pain perception. Psychological Research.