MUNICH, GERMANY--The relatively young, interdisciplinary subject of Biophotonics will be a major focal topic at the LASER 2009 World of PHOTONICS trade show (June 15–18, 2009) in Munich. Biophotonics is a promising future technology that combines lasers with disciplines including chemistry, biology and medicine.
All living plants, animals and human cells emit ultra weak electromagnetic waves in the optical range of the spectrum which cannot be seen by the naked eye but can be measured by special equipment. For example, cancer cells and healthy cells of the same type emit different biophotons that can now be detected and used to differentiate them.
After an initial decade and a half of basic research, biophysicists are now developing many optical technologies that allow non-destructive, high-resolution examination of biological specimens, including three-dimensional images. Applications for this new technology include disease research, non-invasive early medical diagnosis, food and water quality testing, chemical and electromagnetic contamination testing, and cell communication. The outcome is more precise diagnoses, treatments, and therapies.
First-ever biophotonics sections
In addition to a separate exhibition area in Hall B1 and additional displays by exhibitors in other halls at the Munich Trade Fair Center, the World of Photonics Congress will offer a section on biophotonics entitled “Medical Laser Applications”. Subjects will include lasers in medicine, optical diagnostics, high-end endoscopy, and minimally invasive surgery. The European Conferences on Biomedical Optics will feature a number of talks on biomedical optics and imaging, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
Under the title “Visions for future diagnostics”, free Application Panels will examine the main topic of LASER World of PHOTONICS. Experts from science and industry will exchange information and experiences on current interdisciplinary developments and solutions. They will jointly formulate possible solutions and lay the foundations for future developments in the field of biophotonics. For more information, go to world-of-photonics.net/en/laser.