Exploring the Role of Confocal Raman Spectroscopy in Biomedical Research
Author : Manish Jha | Published On : 15 Dec 2023
The basis of confocal Raman spectroscopy is the theory of Raman scattering. Light scattering occurs elastically when incident light strikes a substance. In addition to the elastic scattering, some light is also scattered in an inelastic way. Raman scattering is the term for this phenomenon, which is further subdivided into anti-stokes and stokes scattering.
Integration in pharmaceutical innovation is estimated to propel market growth. This is due to the confocal Raman spectroscopy's capability to offer detailed molecular insights without changing the sample has made it indispensable in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, according to a research report by Astute Analytica, the global confocal Raman spectroscopy market is likely to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% over the forecast period from 2023 to 2031.
Here are some important roles of confocal Raman spectroscopy in biomedical research:
Raman spectroscopy as a process analytical technology (PAT)
The improved volumetric yield of cell culture bioprocesses is attributed to developments in process control, cell engineering, and medium composition, which have made biopharmaceutical manufacturing more feasible and affordable. Enhancements in bioprocess control are largely attributed to the use of Quality by Design (QbD) and Process Analytic Techniques (PAT).
In addition, PAT offers real-time insight that aids in risk management throughout a biopharmaceutical product's lifespan. The PAT framework is an integrated method using modeling, analysis, and historical process knowledge.
Label-free Raman analysis and imaging
Confocal Raman spectroscopy can identify molecular information at each measurement site of a sample without the requirement for labeling. Molecular structure at the measurement position can be inferred from Raman spectra and their component peaks.
Additionally, it is a complementary technique to conventional imaging methods because it can identify groups of biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, without the need for labeling. It also provides information about the molecular components of a sample, unlike fluorescence microscopy, which can observe specific proteins or nucleic acids using labeling techniques.
Confocal Raman imaging's potential for microbial phenotyping
Researchers have made significant advances in medical, biological, and pharmaceutical studies due to the recent development of Raman imaging tools on a small scale. Raman imaging has only lately gained popularity due to the development of sophisticated optical components and high-sensitivity detectors. They enable the resolution of the intrinsically weak Raman signal.
Furthermore, Raman pictures can be produced by choosing a wavenumber that is particular to a given molecule, seeing the Raman intensity at that wavenumber, and documenting the spatial distribution of the molecule. This technique is known as wide-field lighting or direct imaging.
Redox state detection and Raman scattering
A more precise visualization of intracellular molecules is made possible by Raman scattering, which is seen in molecules. It absorbs input light and increases the Raman scattering signal by many orders of magnitude due to the resonance effect. Flavins, Heme proteins, and carotenoids are well-known biomolecules that show resonant Raman scattering when exposed to visible light.
Moreover, porphyrins in heme proteins can be utilized in conjunction with myoglobin, cytochrome, and hemoglobin in Raman imaging. It particularly detects those molecules in cells and tissues and enhances the difference between mitochondria and blood arteries.
