Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy for biological studies

Abstract

In the recent years, vibrational spectroscopies (infrared spectroscopy) have been developed for all sorts of analysis in microbiology. Important features of these methods are the relative ease with which measurements can be performed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) is a technique that has been used over the years in chemical analysis for the identification of substances and is one that may be applied to the characterization of microorganisms. Infrared spectroscopy is based on the measurement of the molecular bond vibration compounds, excited by radiation of a suitable frequency, when given the conditions for energy absorption by the molecules. Here, we review the potential application of vibrational spectroscopies for use in biology. It can be concluded that vibrational spectroscopy show high potential as novel methods.