Molecular chemistry imaging to reveal structural features of various plant feed tissues

Synchrotron Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy as a rapid, direct, and non-destructive analytical technique can explore molecular chemical features of the micro-structure of biological samples. However, the application of this synchrotron technology to feed science and feed chemistry is extremely rare. This article reviews that with synchrotron FTIR microspectroscopy, the molecular chemistry of various feed tissues could be imaged. These images revealed spatial intensity and distribution of chemical functional groups in various feeds tissues within cellular dimensions. Such information can be used for plant breeding program for selecting superior variety of plant for targeted feed purposes and for prediction of feed quality and nutritive value. The final purpose of this article shows that Synchrotron FTIR microspectroscopy can be used for biological structure study.