Abstract
In the molecular world, researchers act as detectives working hard to unravel the mysteries surrounding cells. One of the researchers' greatest tools in this endeavor has been Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy is a spectroscopic technique that measures the unique Raman spectra for every type of biological molecule. As such, Raman spectroscopy has the potential to provide scientists with a library of spectra that can be used to unravel the makeup of an unknown molecule. However, this technique is limited in that it is not able to manipulate particular structures without disturbing their unique environment. Recently, a novel technology that combines Raman spectroscopy with optical tweezers, termed Raman tweezers, evades this problem due to its ability to manipulate a sample without physical contact. As such, Raman tweezers has the potential to become an incredibly effective diagnostic tool for differentially distinguishing tissue, and therefore holds great promise in the field of virology for distinguishing between various virally infected cells. This review provides an introduction for a virologist into the world of spectroscopy and explores many of the potential applications of Raman tweezers in virology.
Highlights
In today's world of increasingly complex and refined biological analytical techniques, spectroscopy has maintained its place at the forefront
The spectra collected are more reflective of the true nature of the molecule under study and of more significance
Even with today's advances, we are only beginning to scratch the surface of a technique that holds the promise of far-reaching and highly significant future applications
Summary
In today's world of increasingly complex and refined biological analytical techniques, spectroscopy has maintained its place at the forefront. Modern techniques have allowed for the Raman spectroscopic analysis of cells in vivo without the need of fixatives, thereby providing extremely detailed analysis of cells in their natural state [25] Such analytical potential has been put to good use in completing spectral maps but LFiingeudrera1wing depicting the region where Near UV and Near Infrared Wavelengths fall in the Light Spectrum. The technique holds all the promise of Raman spectroscopy, including the potential to identify almost any biological molecule and disease, and adds to it both a greater level of control and analytical capability as well as the capability of observing a sample in its natural state. Raman tweezers could prove to be one of the most effective analytical tools in the researchers', and clinicians' repertoire
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
