Biophotonik

Biophotonik, or biophotonics, is the field that studies and applies light-based technologies to biology and medicine. It encompasses the generation, manipulation, and detection of photons to observe living systems, to probe biological processes, and to diagnose or treat disease. The discipline combines optics, photonics, biology, chemistry, and medical science, and utilizes the spectral range from ultraviolet to near-infrared depending on the application.

Common techniques include advanced optical imaging and microscopy, such as fluorescence microscopy, confocal and multiphoton (two-photon) microscopy, light-sheet microscopy, and super-resolution methods (STED, PALM/STORM). Spectroscopic approaches include fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), Raman and infrared spectroscopy, and pump-probe methods. Imaging modalities like optical coherence tomography (OCT) provide cross-sectional views of tissue. Optical sensing and spectroscopy enable in vivo and ex vivo measurements, including plasmonics and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS).

Applications span clinical imaging (ophthalmology, oncology, dermatology, cardiovascular imaging), diagnostics, and image-guided therapy (photodynamic and photothermal therapies, laser surgery). In life sciences, biophotonics supports cellular and molecular studies, optogenetics, and high-throughput screening. Noninvasive and wearable photonic sensors monitor physiological parameters and tissue status. The field also contributes to agricultural and environmental monitoring and to industrial inspection of biological samples.

Biophotonik is highly interdisciplinary and involves academia, medical device companies, and startups. It faces ongoing challenges in translating laboratory techniques to routine clinical use, including regulatory approval, clinical validation, cost, and standardization. Development emphasizes safety, data interpretation, and integration with other biomedical information streams.