Raman spectroscopy is a powerful technique to probe the vibrational characteristics of molecules, which has been widely used for physicochemical and analytical studies and biomedical applications. The capability of Raman for visualization, characterization, and monitoring of biological processes at the molecular and cellular levels in human and other living systems has drawn much attention. Recent advances in Raman microscopy technologies have broadened the applications of Raman bio-imaging in chemistry and biology, leading to less invasive, faster, and more accurate diagnosis and interventions to treat human diseases.

In this Research Topic, we intend to incentivize and collect various points of view in this subject using diverse Raman imaging approaches for elucidating living systems. Basic studies in non-living models and assays are also included. For instance, coherent Raman microscopy achieves rapid label-free imaging of chemical bonds, and the newly designed highly sensitive Raman tags significantly improves the detection sensitivity. Raman bio-imaging has advanced fundamental biochemical studies and human disease diagnosis and interventions. The goal of this Research Topic is to facilitate the communication between spectroscopists and biologists or chemists, exploring new opportunities for multidisciplinary research.

This Research Topic highlights molecular investigations using Raman imaging technologies complemented by chemical and biological methodologies focusing on understanding biomolecular activities in living organisms as well as in vitro processes. Specific topics that we seek to cover are as follows:
• Raman imaging and applications, such as label-free imaging of cellular damage by anti-cancer drugs, and detection of structural alternation in cells induced by therapeutic agents
• Ultraviolet (UV) Raman imaging and applications
• Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) imaging and applications
• Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging and applications
• Raman tags or Raman probes for bio-imaging applications
• Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for biochemical applications, such as SERS monitoring of drug distribution in cells
• Emerging new technologies to improve the capability of Raman imaging, such as quantum effects, super-resolution, and ultrahigh sensitivity.

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Frontiers in Chemical Biology

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