What role do chromophores play in the function of lasers in therapy?

Chromophores are molecules or structures within biological tissues that have the ability to absorb specific wavelengths of light, including those produced by lasers. In the context of laser therapy, the primary role of chromophores is to absorb the energy emitted by the laser. When chromophores absorb laser energy, it can lead to various therapeutic effects, such as increased local temperature, stimulation of cellular activity, or triggering biochemical responses that promote healing.

The concept is grounded in the principle of selective photothermolysis, where specific wavelengths of laser light are used to target particular chromophores, thereby making the treatment more effective while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Thus, understanding the role of chromophores is crucial for optimizing laser therapy applications, as it allows practitioners to select the appropriate wavelength that corresponds with the specific chromophores present in the target tissue.