Single cell spectroscopy: noninvasive measures of small-scale structure and function

Methods. 2013 Dec 1;64(2):119-28. doi: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2013.07.025. Epub 2013 Jul 22.

Abstract

The advancement of spectroscopy methods attained through increases in sensitivity, and often with the coupling of complementary techniques, has enabled real-time structure and function measurements of single cells. The purpose of this review is to illustrate, in light of advances, the strengths and the weaknesses of these methods. Included also is an assessment of the impact of the experimental setup and conditions of each method on cellular function and integrity. A particular emphasis is placed on noninvasive and nondestructive techniques for achieving single cell detection, including nuclear magnetic resonance, in addition to physical, optical, and vibrational methods.

Keywords: Atomic force microscopy; Fluorescence microscopy; Nuclear magnetic resonance; Single cells; Spectroscopy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy / methods
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods
  • Single-Cell Analysis / methods*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods