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Updated: Feb 6, 2026
13:48
Non-contact, Label-free Monitoring of Cells and Extracellular Matrix using Raman Spectroscopy
Published on: May 29, 2012
17.6K
Label-free Molecular Imaging and Analysis by Raman Spectroscopy
Yasuaki Kumamoto1, Yoshinori Harada1, Tetsuro Takamatsu2
1Department of Pathology and Cell Regulation, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kawaramachi-Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan.
Acta Histochemica Et Cytochemica
|August 8, 2018
Summary
Raman spectroscopy offers label-free molecular sensing for biological samples. Recent advances enable practical molecular imaging and discrimination of living cells and tissues for biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Molecular Spectroscopy
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Raman spectroscopy provides intrinsic chemical information from biomolecules.
- It enables label-free, quantitative, and in situ molecular sensing without sample disruption.
- Historically used in biology, its application in live cell and tissue imaging is recent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To overview recent advancements in Raman spectroscopy for life sciences.
- To highlight its application in molecular imaging and discrimination of biological samples.
- To explore its potential in biomedical research and diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Raman scattering for molecular fingerprinting.
- Applying multivariate analysis for complex spectral interpretation.
- Developing advanced techniques for enhanced sensitivity and imaging capabilities.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated molecular imaging of functional molecules in living cells and tissues (e.g., cancer cells, infarcted hearts).
- Showcased accurate peripheral nerve detection and characterization of myocardial infarct healing using multivariate analysis.
- Highlighted progress in overcoming limitations like weak scattering intensity.
Conclusions:
- Raman spectroscopy is increasingly practical for molecular imaging and discrimination in life sciences.
- Multivariate analysis enhances the understanding of complex biological samples.
- Continued technological progress promises wider biomedical applications for Raman spectroscopy.
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