Viewing 3D spatial biology with highly-multiplexed Raman imaging: from spectroscopy to biotechnology

Abstract

Understanding complex biological systems requires simultaneous characterization of a large number of interacting components in their native 3D environment with high spatial resolution. Highly-multiplexed Raman imaging is an emerging general strategy for detecting biomarkers with scalable multiplexity and ultra-sensitivity based on a series of Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) techniques. Here we review recent advances in highly-multiplexed Raman imaging and how they contribute to the technology revolution in 3D spatial biology, focusing on the developmental pathway from spectroscopy study to biotechnology invention. We envision highly-multiplexed Raman imaging is taking off and will greatly facilitate our understanding in biological and medical research fields.