High concentration <i>trans</i> form unsaturated lipids detected in a HeLa cell by Raman microspectroscopy

Abstract

Abstract High concentration trans form unsaturated lipids have been found in a HeLa cell by Raman microspectroscopy. Two CC stretch bands are observed simultaneously at 1669 cm −1 ( trans form) and at 1656 cm −1 ( cis form) in a Raman spectrum obtained from a small area (1 µm in diameter) in a HeLa cell. The intensity ratio 1669/1656 indicates that the concentration of the trans form is as high as that of the cis . It is demonstrated that Raman microspectroscopy provides a powerful and unique means for in situ and noninvasive structural characterization of unsaturated lipids in a living cell. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.