(Invited) Bio-Lasers: An Emerging Field Bridging Laser Photonics and Biomedicine

Abstract

Bio-lasers are emerging technology for next generation biochemical detection and biophotonic applications. Recently, laser-based detection has been exploited as a novel tool in biosensing due to their capability to amplify subtle changes in the gain media caused by underlying biological processes. Laser emission has unique merits over fluorescence, including threshold-gated emission, narrow linewidth, and strong intensity, leading to ultrasensitive detection of intracellular dynamics, and superior contrast for higher spectral/spatial resolution imaging. In this talk, I will introduce the recent advances of biolasers in cells, tissues, and neuronal networks, by using several types of micro-laser cavities, such as optofluidic ring resonators and high-Q Fabry-Pérot mirrors. Next, we demonstrate the possible implementation of biolasers into an automated lasing system for systematic and statistical analysis, including an integrated cellular laser array device and laser-emission microscopy for cancer screening and immuno-diagnosis. Furthermore, optical recording of calcium transients during spontaneous neuronal activities was first demonstrated via neuron lasers with a significantly improved sensitivity, not only for monitoring neuronal network dynamics but an ultra-sensitive detection method for brain-on-chip applications and neuro-analysis. Finally, discussion and outlook is made on the strategies through biolasers and to pioneer novel on-chip devices for future clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and fundamental research in biomedicine.