Linear and nonlinear optical effects in biophotonic structures using classical and nonclassical light

Abstract

In this perspective article, we review the optical study of different biophotonic geometries and biological structures using classical light in linear and nonlinear regime, especially highlighting the link between these morphologies and modern biomedical research. Additionally, the importance of nonlinear optical study in biological research, beyond traditional cell imaging is also highlighted and described. Finally, we present a short introduction regarding nonclassical light and describe the new future perspective of quantum optical study in biology, revealing the link between quantum realm and biological research.

Unveiling the nonlinear optical response of Trictenotoma childreni longhorn beetle

“…This putative non‐random distribution of the fluorophores would appear during the development of the beetle's scales in the pupae . Interestingly, no SHG signal was detected in the case of Hoplia coerulea scarab beetle , where the absence of detected SHG signal may be explained by a centrosymmetric distribution of molecules within that be quite unexpected considering the fluorescence response of H. coerulea was shown, most beetle's nanostructured scales. This centrosymmetry would likely, to be due to complex fluorescent molecules that allow multiple resonance transfers between donor and acceptor groups .…”

“…Interestingly, no SHG signal was detected in the case of Hoplia coerulea scarab beetle , where the absence of detected SHG signal may be explained by a centrosymmetric distribution of molecules within that be quite unexpected considering the fluorescence response of H. coerulea was shown, most beetle's nanostructured scales. This centrosymmetry would likely, to be due to complex fluorescent molecules that allow multiple resonance transfers between donor and acceptor groups . Unlike the case of H. coerulea , THG signal was not observed for T. childreni , but we believe this is due to the low laser intensity, which was necessary to prevent damage to the samples.…”

“…However, nonlinear optical (NLO) microscopy and spectroscopy techniques are also very effective tools for the imaging and the study of these natural structures . They rely on optical mechanisms such as second harmonic generation (SHG), third harmonic generation (THG) or two‐photon excitation fluorescence (2PF) . In contrast to regular linear optical methods, NLO microscopy and spectroscopy require high‐intensity laser light allowing to probe properties of the sample that are not discernible when using linear optical techniques.…”

Bioinspired NEMS—Prospective of Collaboration with Nature

“…The quantum effect must be considered and controlled, which is one of the most challenging tasks for the development and applications of future NEMS. Figure 6 shows the cartoon image of "strangeness" of quantum mechanics [44].…”

Naturally occurring fluorescence in transparent insect wings

“…One example is the transparent wings of insects from the order Hemiptera. For example, in both males and females of many cicadas, both pairs of wings are known for their anti-reflective properties [20][21][22][23][24] arising from electromagnetic impedance matching between the air and the wing material covered by quasi-periodic arrays of hexagonally close-packed protrusions (Fig. 1a,b).…”