Quantum cascade laser-based mid-infrared spectrochemical imaging of tissue and biofluids

Clemens, Graeme and Bird, Benjamin and Weida, Miles and Rowlette, Jeremy and Baker, Matthew J. (2014) Quantum cascade laser-based mid-infrared spectrochemical imaging of tissue and biofluids. Spectroscopy Europe, 26 (4). pp. 14-19. ISSN 1522-2349 (http://www.spectroscopyeurope.com/articles/55-arti...)

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Abstract

Mid-infrared spectroscopic imaging is a rapidly emerging technique in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics that takes advantage of the unique molecular fingerprint of cells, tissue and biofluids to provide a rich biochemical image without the need for staining. Spectroscopic analysis allows for the objective classification of biological material at a molecular level.1 This “label free” molecular imaging technique has been applied to histology, cytology, surgical pathology, microbiology and stem cell research, and can be used to detect subtle changes to the genome, proteome and metabolome.2,3,4 The new wealth of biochemical information made available by this technique has the distinct potential to improve cancer patient outcome through the identification of earlier stages of disease, drug resistance, new disease states and high-risk populations.4 However, despite the maturity of this science, instrumentation that provide increased sample throughput, improved image quality, a small footprint, low maintenance and require minimal spectral expertise are essential for clinical translation.