Raman spectroscopy as a new biochemical diagnostic tool

Abstract

In this review, Raman spectroscopy is described as a new and potentially powerful diagnostic tool in comparison to routine biochemical tests. Advanced instrumentation and new Raman spectroscopy techniques enable rapid and simultaneous identification and/or determination of se veral biochemical parameters, such as glucose, acetone, creatinine, urea, lipid profile, uric acid, total protein, etc, with a very low limit of detection. Raman spectroscopy could also be applied in molecule and cell characterization, as well as diagnostics of atherosclerosis in its early stage. Raman spectroscopy is nondestructive and could be applied to all kinds of samples, which simplifies the diagnostics of numerous disea ses and pathologic states. Special attention is paid to literature data illustrating the application of Raman spectroscopy for transdermal glucose monitoring and cancer diagnostics.