Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025

Detection of Bacteria Using Fluorogenic DNAzymes
Published on: May 28, 2012
Shining a Light on Spectrophotometry in Bacteriology
Veronica Montesinos-Cruz1, Greg A Somerville1
1School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0905, USA.
Abstract:
Spectrophotometry is widely used in biological sciences. In bacteriology, spectrophotometric monitoring of cell numbers during cultivation provides a rapid assessment of growth. Unfortunately, familiarity with this technique has led scientists to become complacent in its usage. Here, we review some guiding principles of spectrophotometry and practical considerations that may influence the outcome of experiments. This perspective is intended to assist both new and seasoned scientists in presenting robust and reproducible growth data based on spectrophotometric readings.
Related Concept Videos
Spectrophotometry: Introduction
The essential components of a spectrophotometer include a source of electromagnetic radiation, a slot for placing a material to be analyzed, and a...
UV–Vis Spectrometers
Microbial Growth Measurement: Indirect Methods
UV–Vis Spectroscopy: Beer–Lambert Law
Ultraviolet and Visible (UV–Vis) Spectroscopy: Overview
Fluorescence and Phosphorescence: Instrumentation

