Advertisement

If you have an ACS member number, please enter it here so we can link this account to your membership. (optional)

ACS values your privacy. By submitting your information, you are gaining access to C&EN and subscribing to our weekly newsletter. We use the information you provide to make your reading experience better, and we will never sell your data to third party members.

ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCES TO C&EN

Analytical Chemistry

Pathogens identified by Raman imaging

March 19, 2007 | A version of this story appeared in Volume 85, Issue 12

[+]Enlarge
Credit: Anal. Chem.
Credit: Anal. Chem.

In the event of a biological attack, rapid methods for identifying pathogenic organisms will be important for mounting an effective response. Raman chemical imaging spectroscopy could be one of those methods. Kathryn S. Kalasinsky of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Patrick J. Treado of ChemImage, and coworkers report the development of a library of spectroscopic signatures for identifying bacteria in complex samples (Anal. Chem., DOI: 10.1021/ac0700575). The researchers examined biothreat agents using optical and fluorescence imaging and then confirmed the identity of the organisms by their Raman spectral signatures. In the composite image shown, spores of Bacillus globigii, a close relative of Bacillus anthracis, were identified by their different-colored fluorescence (blue) and Raman (green) signatures. The method also is sensitive enough to detect single anthrax spores. In a blind study of 20 samples, the method correctly identified several pathogens, including B. anthracis and genetically similar bacteria.

Article:

This article has been sent to the following recipient:

0 /1 FREE ARTICLES LEFT THIS MONTH Remaining
Chemistry matters. Join us to get the news you need.