What is the role of the chromophore in laser therapy?

In laser therapy, the role of the chromophore is to absorb specific wavelengths of light. Chromophores are molecules that can absorb light at particular wavelengths, which makes them critical in laser treatments. When a chromophore absorbs laser light, the energy from the light is converted into heat, which can stimulate biological processes in the tissue.

This absorption is crucial because it determines the effectiveness of the laser therapy; different tissue types may have different chromophores, meaning they absorb light at varying wavelengths. For example, hemoglobin in blood and melanin in skin are common chromophores that can absorb laser light, which is why understanding their properties is essential for selecting the appropriate laser and settings for treatment.

The other options refer to functions that do not apply to the role of chromophores. Chromophores do not reflect laser light, amplify energy, or cool tissue directly; rather, they facilitate targeted absorption to promote desired therapeutic effects.