Editorial Introduction to JSTQE Special Issue on Biophotonics (2023)

Biophotonics is a research and technology field that sits at the interface of photonics and biomedical applications, which includes clinical diagnosis, therapeutics, biotechnology, and the environment. The integration of optics and biology has been one of the most active technology areas in the past three decades, not only in curiosity-driven research but also in terms of how these technologies are translated into practice with visible impacts within a relatively short time. A prominent example is the use of lasers and photonics technologies in ophthalmology applications such as laser vision correction, artificial lenses in cataract surgery, and retinal detachment repairs. The adoption of photonics technologies in medicine is significantly faster than other medical devices in a relatively cautious and heavily regulated area, mostly owing to its natural compatibility with minimally invasive procedures. Biophotonics is an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary area at the same time. Even for a specific application, e.g., laser vision correction, many different photonics technologies may be used in combination: UV laser ablation in cornea reshaping, ultrafast laser ablation for cap cutting, image processing and modeling for procedure planning and design, and real time eye movement tracking. Many optical modalities do not require direct contact with the target, which allows several methods to be multiplexed, e.g., to provide additional sources of diagnostic contrasts or real-time feedback and guidance for therapy.