Lorenz-Mie light scattering in cellular biology

The Lorenz-Mie light scattering is discussed as a tool allowing living cell characterization. The scattered light carries information about the size, shape, internal structure and refractive index of the cell. The advantages of light scattering methods consist in high speed, nondestructive, sensitive and relatively easy measurements. Light scattering methods are compatible with other methods. In light scattering in both static and flow systems. For sphere-like cells reliable size and refractive index information can be extracted. On the empirical basis, light scattering pattern can be used for the cell identification and separation purposes. The full utilization of the light scattering information is limited due to the lack of theoretical knowledge about the complex scatterer properties and efficient inversion schemes. The rapid progress in computer technique and in single-particle scattering experiments may significantly improve the interpretation of light scattering patterns of the biological particles.