In the field of Biomedicine, the linear transport equation is a widely adopted “gold standard” for solutions with the Monte Carlo method being an easily implemented solution technique. Model-based computer algorithms enable a quantitative analysis of approximate transport solutions. The “Friday morning meeting,” or the Modeling and Computation Group meeting, was launched at UC Irvine Beckman Laser Institute & Medical Clinic in 1997. Initially focused on Monte Carlo modeling developments, the discussions have since expanded to encompass various modeling and computational aspects of biophotonics research. The Virtual Photonics Technology Initiative emerged from this group.

VIRTUAL PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE

The Virtual Photonics Technology Initiative (VPTI) was supported from April 2008 to March 2019 by the Laser Microbeam and Medical Program (LAMMP), a National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) Biomedical Technology Resource Center at UC Irvine Beckman Laser Institute & Medical Clinic.

The VPTI was established to:

• Serve as a central resource supporting laboratory-based technologies at the Institute.
• Develop model-based computational algorithms to describe and visualize light-tissue interactions, from individual cells to whole organs.
• Utilize advanced image analysis and pattern recognition to create optical diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.

These methodologies are used to:

• Develop optical technologies that accurately model cells and tissues.
• Create new medical devices to diagnose and treat disease.
• Enhance information content from diagnostic and therapeutic technology measurements.

The VPTI remains active and welcomes contributions, collaborations and support from academic and industry stakeholders.