Analysis of Single Eukaryotic Cells Using Raman Tweezers

Raman Tweezers is a technique that combines optical trapping with Raman spectroscopy and has enabled the spectroscopic analysis of single cells. Applications of this technique include the identification and discrimination of different types of cells, including healthy and non-healthy cells (e.g. cancer cells). In addition, the interaction of cells with stimuli, e.g. drugs, can also be studied on a single-cell basis. Herein, a generic protocol for the analysis of fixed and living single eukaryotic cells is described, including the considerations required to build a Raman Tweezers systems.