Biomaterial microlasers implantable in the cornea, skin, and blood

Fluorescent stand-alone laser particles that are implantable into biological tissues have the potential to enable novel optical imaging, diagnosis, and therapy. Here we demonstrate several types of biocompatible microlasers and their lasing action within biological systems. Dye-doped polystyrene beads were embedded in the cornea and optically pumped to generate narrowband emission. We fabricated microbeads with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and poly(lactic acid)-substances approved for medical use-and demonstrate lasing from within tissues and whole blood. Furthermore, we demonstrate biocompatible cholesterol-derivative microdroplet lasers via self-assembly to an onion-like radially resonant photonic crystal structure. These types of implanted lasers may enable real-time monitoring of physiological information, such as temperature. (C) 2017 Optical Society of America