Application of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for tumor diagnosis

The absence of sufficient reliable methods for early detection of cancers requires a search for new and more effective techniques for screening and prevention. The discovery and introduction of appropriate techniques to test risk groups would increase the chances of successful treatment and subsequently reduce mortality. Accurate diagnostic tests and minimally invasive procedures are a main requirement for cost-effective screening tests. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is a non-invasive technology and can detect changes in a functional group in molecules from tissues or cells. The changes can be visualized by a spectrum of wavenumbers in the mid infrared range (4000 to 400 cm). FTIR has shown promises as a sensitive diagnostic tool to distinguish malignant from normal cells in cancers including tumors of colon, ovaries, breast, skin, cervix, lung and oesophagus. The biochemical changes are often observed between tumor and normal cells within a wavenumber range known as the "fngerprint region" (encompassing 1800 to 950 cm). The aim of this review is to summarize the application of FTIR for diagnosis of different types of cancer cells. © Biotechnol. & Biotechnol.