Photobiology

Photobiology is the scientific study of the interactions of light (technically, non-ionizing radiation) and living organisms. The field encompasses the effects of ultraviolet (UV), visible and infrared radiation, in both the beneficial and harmful effects to living organisms.

Overview

Photobiology involves the study of photosynthetic organisms and the biological effects of sunlight on other organisms. The field is interdisciplinary, and can involve work in biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. Photobiologists use tools and concepts from optics, biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics.

Sub-disciplines

Photobiology can be divided into a number of sub-disciplines including:

• Photomedicine: This involves the study of the effects of light on health. It includes the treatment of diseases and conditions such as psoriasis, jaundice and skin cancer with light.

• Photosynthesis: This is the process by which green plants, algae and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

• Photomorphogenesis: This is the effect of light on plant morphology. It includes the study of how plants use light signals to regulate growth and development.

• Chronobiology: This is the study of biological rhythms and how they are affected by patterns of sunlight.

• Photoprotection: This involves the study of how organisms protect themselves from damage caused by light.

• Phototoxicity: This is the study of the toxic effects of light on organisms.

History

The field of photobiology has a long history, with studies dating back to the early 19th century. Early work focused on the effects of light on plant growth and the discovery of photosynthesis. In the 20th century, the field expanded to include the study of the effects of ultraviolet radiation on skin and the development of phototherapy in medicine.

See also

• Photobiomodulation
• Photodynamic therapy
• Photoperiodism
• Photophysics

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