Laser biophotonics

This issue of Quantum Electronics contains papers reflecting the current state of the field of knowledge and technology, currently called "biophotonics". Since in most studies the source of electromagnetic radiation is a laser, the papers of this issue are joined under the title "laser biophotonics". This concept defines a wide area of research at the intersection of physics, materials sciences, biology, medicine, mathematical modelling and other disciplines, the rapid development of which is currently due to many factors. They include new results of fundamental research in the field of biotissue optics and the interaction of laser radiation with biotissues and cells, a significant progress in the development of means for generating, delivering, detecting and visualising optical radiation, and the use of new computer and nanotechnologies. All of the above factors provide the possibility of obtaining new, previously inaccessible information about living objects and offer a more effective and directed impact of electromagnetic radiation on individual biological structures, thereby opening up new possibilities for early efficient diagnostics, as well as the treatment of socially significant diseases.