Histochemical analysis of biological tissues using Raman spectroscopy

This paper reviews the application of the Raman spectroscopic technique for analysis of biological tissue. The advantages and disadvantages of visible, near-IR and UV excitations are described, and the problems and prospects of using these methodologies for disease diagnosis are addressed. In situ analysis of tissue proteins, lens, cornea, blood constituents, biological stones and several hard tissues is reviewed, and the potentials for diagnosing arterial disease, and cancer in gynecological tissues, soft tissues, breast, colon, bladder and brain are also presented. Recent technological advances in instrumentation allow the use of Raman spectroscopy for real time histochemical analysis of tissues. The capability of Raman microspectroscopy for providing spatial information about the distribution of biochemical constituents in tissues has been demonstrated. The work reviewed indicates the promise of Raman spectroscopy for endoscopic imaging and real-time quantitation of biochemical constituents in clinical situations.