fotobiological

Fotobiological refers to phenomena or processes that involve the interaction of light with living organisms. This broad term encompasses a wide range of biological responses to light, from its essential role in photosynthesis to potentially harmful effects like sunburn.

In plants, light is crucial for photosynthesis, the process by which they convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This fundamental biological process underpins most ecosystems on Earth. Beyond photosynthesis, light also influences plant growth and development, a phenomenon known as photomorphogenesis. Plants can sense light intensity, direction, and spectral quality, which guides their responses like germination, flowering, and stem elongation.

In animals, light plays a significant role in regulating circadian rhythms, the internal biological clocks that govern sleep-wake cycles and other daily physiological processes. Light detection by specialized photoreceptor cells in the eyes and elsewhere in the body is key to this regulation. For example, exposure to sunlight helps synchronize our internal clocks with the external day-night cycle.

However, light can also have detrimental fotobiological effects. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a component of sunlight, can damage DNA and cellular structures, leading to skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer in humans. Other forms of light, particularly intense or prolonged exposure, can cause damage to the eyes. The study of these harmful effects is an important aspect of photobiology and dermatology. Understanding fotobiological interactions is vital for fields ranging from agriculture and medicine to environmental science.