Raman2imzML converts Raman imaging data into the standard mass spectrometry imaging format

Abstract

Background: Multimodal imaging that combines mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) with Raman imaging is a rapidly developing multidisciplinary analytical method used by a growing number of research groups. Computational tools that can visualize and aid the analysis of datasets by both techniques are in demand. Results: Raman2imzML was developed as an open-source converter that transforms Raman imaging data into imzML, a standardized common data format created and adopted by the mass spectrometry community. We successfully converted Raman datasets to imzML and visualized Raman images using open-source software designed for MSI applications. Conclusion: Raman2imzML enables both MSI and Raman images to be visualized using the same file format and the same software for a straightforward exploratory imaging analysis.