Raman Microscopy Complement or Competitor

The objective of this chapter is to provide an introduction to Raman spectroscopic microscopy and its potential for biochemical analysis and clinical diagnostic applications, such that it can be compared and contrasted to the techniques of synchrotron and bench-top mid-FTIR spectroscopy discussed elsewhere in this book. Raman spectroscopy is a complementary technique to mid-IR absorption spectroscopy with established capabilities for materials and process analysis. As a bioanalytical and diagnostic technique, similar to FTIR spectroscopy, its potential has been demonstrated although there are many differing technical considerations to be addressed. Raman has potentially significant advantages as well as drawbacks compared to FTIR techniques. Here we endeavour to outline these benefits and pitfalls and project the complementary and competitive usage of Raman techniques. 

For a detailed description of the basic principles of Raman spectroscopy, the associated instrumentation and potential for spectroscopic imaging, the reader is referred to some of the many excellent texts in the literature. This chapter provides an introduction to Raman spectroscopy and how it is measured. It outlines some experimental considerations specific to biospectroscopy and explores applications from molecular through cellular to tissue imaging for biochemical analysis and disease diagnostics. The complementarities and potential advantages over IR spectroscopy [Fourier Transform (FTIR) and Synchrotron Fourier Transform (S-FTIR)] are described. Finally, the future potential of the development of Raman spectroscopy for biochemical analysis and in vivo disease diagnostics are projected. 

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