Review of life science applications using submicron O-PTIR and simultaneous Raman microscopy: a new paradigm in vibrational spectroscopy

The recent advent of Optical Photothermal IR (O-PTIR), has enabled for the first time, submicron infrared microscopy in far-field reflection mode with the combination of Raman for simultaneous, correlative IR+Raman microscopy. These unique and exciting synergistic capabilities are now spawning interest in life science application. A broad range of life science applications, otherwise impossible with traditional FTIR/QCL microscopy, will be presented, ranging from live cell imaging in water, to ultra-high resolution images of breast tissue calcifications, amyloid aggregates in neurons (neurites and dendritic spines), individual collagen fibrils with polarized IR and individual isotopically labelled bacterial cells and more.