Raman microspectroscopy of individual algal cells: sensing unsaturation of storage lipids in vivo

Analytical Techniques in Lipidomics: State of the Art

Current studies related to lipid identification and determination, or lipidomics in biological samples, are one of the most important issues in modern bioanalytical chemistry. There are many articles dedicated to specific analytical strategies used in lipidomics in various kinds of biological samples. However, in such literature, there is a lack of articles dedicated to a comprehensive review of the actual analytical methodologies used in lipidomics. The aim of this article is to characterize the lipidomics methods used in modern bioanalysis according to the methodological point of view: (1) chromatography/separation methods, (2) spectroscopic methods and (3) mass spectrometry and also hyphenated methods. In the first part, we discussed thin layer chromatography (TLC), high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE). The second part includes spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy (RS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The third part is a synthetic review of mass spectrometry, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI), hyphenated methods, which include liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and also multidimensional techniques. Other aspects are the possibilities of the application of the described methods in lipidomics studies. Due to the fact that the exploration of new methods of lipidomics analysis and their applications in clinical and medical studies are still challenging for researchers working in life science, we hope that this review article will be very useful for readers.

Raman spectroscopy compatible PDMS droplet microfluidic culture and analysis platform towards on-chip lipidomics

Lipids produced by microalgae are viewed as a potential renewable alternative to fossil fuels, however, significant improvements in productivity are required for microalgal biofuels to become economically feasible. Here we present a method that allows for the use of Raman spectroscopy with poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) droplet microfluidic devices, which not only overcomes the high Raman background of PDMS, but also achieves pairing of the high-throughput single-cell resolution advantages of droplet microfluidics with the direct, chemically specific, label-free, and non-destructive nature of Raman spectroscopy. The platform was successfully utilized for in situ characterization of microalgal lipid production over time within droplets, paving the way towards high-throughput microalgal lipidomics assays.

Label-free, simultaneous quantification of starch, protein and triacylglycerol in single microalgal cells

BACKGROUND

Current approaches for quantification of major energy-storage forms in microalgae, including starch, protein and lipids, generally require cell cultivation to collect biomass followed by tedious and time-consuming analytical procedures. Thus, label-free, non-destructive and simultaneous quantification of such macromolecules at single-cell resolution is highly desirable in microalgal feedstock development and bioprocess control.

RESULTS

Here, we established a method based on single-cell Raman spectra (SCRS) that simultaneously quantifies the contents of starch, protein, triacylglycerol (TAG) and lipid unsaturation degree in individual Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells. Measurement accuracy for the contents based on full SCRS spectrum each reached 96.86-99.24%, all significantly higher than single peak-based models. However, accuracy and reliability of measurement are dependent on the number of cells sampled, thus a formal mathematical framework was proposed and validated to rationally define "minimal sampling depth" for a given state of cellular population. Furthermore, a barcode consisting of 13 marker Raman peaks was proposed to characterize the temporal dynamics of these energy-storage products, which revealed that the average contents of starch and TAG increased, while their heterogeneity indices decreased, with those of protein being exactly the opposite. Finally, our method is widely applicable, as measurements among cells from liquid suspension culture, wet paste and frozen dried powder all exhibited excellent consistency.

CONCLUSIONS

When sampled at proper depth, SCRS can serve as a quantitative and generally applicable tool for characterization and screening of strains and bioprocesses based on the profile of energy-storage macromolecules and their among-cell heterogeneity.

Identification of pesticide varieties by detecting characteristics of Chlorella pyrenoidosa using Visible/Near infrared hyperspectral imaging and Raman microspectroscopy technology

The main goal of this research is to examine the feasibility of applying Visible/Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (Vis/NIR-HSI) and Raman microspectroscopy technology for non-destructive identification of pesticide varieties (glyphosate and butachlor). Both mentioned technologies were explored to investigate how internal elements or characteristics of Chlorella pyrenoidosa change when pesticides are applied, and in the meantime, to identify varieties of the pesticides during this procedure. Successive projections algorithm (SPA) was introduced to our study to identify seven most effective wavelengths. With those wavelengths suggested by SPA, a model of the linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was established to classify the pesticide varieties, and the correct classification rate of the SPA-LDA model reached as high as 100%. For the Raman technique, a few partial least squares discriminant analysis models were established with different preprocessing methods from which we also identified one processing approach that achieved the most optimal result. The sensitive wavelengths (SWs) which are related to algae's pigment were chosen, and a model of LDA was established with the correct identification reached a high level of 90.0%. The results showed that both Vis/NIR-HSI and Raman microspectroscopy techniques are capable to identify pesticide varieties in an indirect but effective way, and SPA is an effective wavelength extracting method. The SWs corresponding to microalgae pigments, which were influenced by pesticides, could also help to characterize different pesticide varieties and benefit the variety identification.

Quantitative Raman Spectroscopy Analysis of Polyhydroxyalkanoates Produced by Cupriavidus necator H16

We report herein on the application of Raman spectroscopy to the rapid quantitative analysis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), biodegradable polyesters accumulated by various bacteria. This theme was exemplified for quantitative detection of the most common member of PHAs, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) in Cupriavidus necator H16. We have identified the relevant spectral region (800–1800 cm⁻¹) incorporating the Raman emission lines exploited for the calibration of PHB (PHB line at 1736 cm⁻¹) and for the selection of the two internal standards (DNA at 786 cm⁻¹ and Amide I at 1662 cm⁻¹). In order to obtain quantitative data for calibration of intracellular content of PHB in bacterial cells reference samples containing PHB amounts—determined by gas chromatography—from 12% to 90% (w/w) were used. Consequently, analytical results based on this calibration can be used for fast and reliable determination of intracellular PHB content during biotechnological production of PHB since the whole procedure—from bacteria sampling, centrifugation, and sample preparation to Raman analysis—can take about 12 min. In contrast, gas chromatography analysis takes approximately 8 h.

Advances in techniques for assessment of microalgal lipids

Microalgae are a varied group of organisms with considerable commercial potential as sources of various biochemicals, storage molecules and metabolites such as lipids, sugars, amino acids, pigments and toxins. Algal lipids can be processed to bio-oils and biodiesel. The conventional method to estimate algal lipids is based on extraction using solvents and quantification by gravimetry or chromatography. Such methods are time consuming, use hazardous chemicals and are labor intensive. For rapid screening of prospective algae or for management decisions (e.g. decision on timing of harvest), a rapid, high throughput, reliable, accurate, cost effective and preferably nondestructive analytical technique is desirable. This manuscript reviews the application of fluorescent lipid soluble dyes (Nile Red and BODIPY 505/515), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Raman, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the assessment of lipids in microalgae.

Raman-based noninvasive metabolic profile evaluation of in vitro bovine embryos

The timing of the first embryonic cell divisions may predict the ability of an embryo to establish pregnancy. Similarly, metabolic profiles may be markers of embryonic viability. However, in bovine, data about the metabolomics profile of these embryos are still not available. In the present work, we describe Raman-based metabolomic profiles of culture media of bovine embryos with different developmental kinetics (fast x slow) throughout the in vitro culture. The principal component analysis enabled us to classify embryos with different developmental kinetics since they presented specific spectroscopic profiles for each evaluated time point. We noticed that bands at 1076  cm(−1) (lipids), 1300  cm(−1) (Amide III), and 2719  cm(−1) (DNA nitrogen bases) gave the most relevant spectral features, enabling the separation between fast and slow groups. Bands at 1001  cm(−1) (phenylalanine) and 2892  cm(−1) (methylene group of the polymethylene chain) presented specific patterns related to embryonic stage and can be considered as biomarkers of embryonic development by Raman spectroscopy. The culture media analysis by Raman spectroscopy proved to be a simple and sensitive technique that can be applied with high efficiency to characterize the profiles of in vitro produced bovine embryos with different development kinetics and different stages of development.

Live diatoms facing Ag nanoparticles: surface enhanced Raman scattering of bulk cylindrotheca closterium pennate diatoms and of the single cells

Live diatoms exposed to AgNPs revealed SERS mechanism dependent on the nanoparticles type while the SERS output allowed detection of extracellular substances.

Influence of Culture Media on Microbial Fingerprints Using Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy has a broad range of applications across numerous scientific fields, including microbiology. Our work here monitors the influence of culture media on the Raman spectra of clinically important microorganisms (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans). Choosing an adequate medium may enhance the reproducibility of the method as well as simplifying the data processing and the evaluation. We tested four different media per organism depending on the nutritional requirements and clinical usage directly on a Petri dish. Some of the media have a significant influence on the microbial fingerprint (Roosvelt-Park Institute Medium, CHROMagar) and should not be used for the acquisition of Raman spectra. It was found that the most suitable medium for microbiological experiments regarding these organisms was Mueller-Hinton agar.

Rapid and noninvasive technique to assess the metabolomics profile of bovine embryos produced in vitro by Raman spectroscopy

Morphological assessments are used to select embryos with the highest implantation potential, however it is still very limited. The development of new technologies, such as Raman spectroscopy have improved quantitative and qualitative analysis, and consequently led to a better characterization of embryos and improvements on the prediction of their potential. Therefore, we propose a method based on the conventional in vitro culture system of bovine embryos, and the subsequent analysis of the culture media drops by Raman spectroscopy. Our results obtained by PCA analysis clearly showed a separation of the spectral profiles from culture media drops with and without embryos.

Raman spectroscopy analysis of lipid droplets content, distribution and saturation level in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in mice

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disorder, characterized by an excessive lipids deposition within the hepatic tissue. Due to the lack of clear-cut symptoms and optimal diagnostic method, the actual prevalence of NAFLD and its pathogenesis remains unclear, especially in the early stages of progression. In the presented work confocal Raman microspectroscopy was used to investigate alterations in the chemical composition of the NAFLD-affected liver. We have investigated two NAFLD models, representative for macrovesicular and microvesicular steatosis, induced by High Fat Diet (60 kcal %) and Low Carbohydrate High Protein Diet (LCHP), respectively. In both models we confirmed the development of NAFLD, manifested by the presence of lipid droplets (LDs), but of different sizes. Model of macrovesicular steatosis was characterized by large LDs, whereas in the microvesicular steatosis model small droplets were found. In both models, however, we observed a significant decrease in the degree of unsaturation of lipids, in comparison to the control. In addition, for both models, the impact of medical treatment with selected drugs (perindopril and nicotinic acid, respectively) was tested, indicating a significant influence of medicine not only on the occurrence and size of the droplets, but also on their composition. In both cases the drug treatment resulted in an increase of the degree of unsaturation of lipids forming droplets. Confocal Raman microspectroscopy was proven to be a powerful tool providing detailed insight into selected areas of hepatic tissue, following the NAFLD pathogenesis and diagnostic potential of the applied drugs.

Identification of individual biofilm-forming bacterial cells using Raman tweezers

A method for in vitro identification of individual bacterial cells is presented. The method is based on a combination of optical tweezers for spatial trapping of individual bacterial cells and Raman microspectroscopy for acquisition of spectral “Raman fingerprints” obtained from the trapped cell. Here, Raman spectra were taken from the biofilm-forming cells without the influence of an extracellular matrix and were compared with biofilm-negative cells. Results of principal component analyses of Raman spectra enabled us to distinguish between the two strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis. Thus, we propose that Raman tweezers can become the technique of choice for a clearer understanding of the processes involved in bacterial biofilms which constitute a highly privileged way of life for bacteria, protected from the external environment.

Label-free imaging and biochemical characterization of bovine sperm cells

A full label-free morphological and biochemical characterization is desirable to select spermatozoa during preparation for artificial insemination. In order to study these fundamental parameters, we take advantage of two attractive techniques: digital holography (DH) and Raman spectroscopy (RS). DH presents new opportunities for studying morphological aspect of cells and tissues non-invasively, quantitatively and without the need for staining or tagging, while RS is a very specific technique allowing the biochemical analysis of cellular components with a spatial resolution in the sub-micrometer range. In this paper, morphological and biochemical bovine sperm cell alterations were studied using these techniques. In addition, a complementary DH and RS study was performed to identify X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm cells. We demonstrate that the two techniques together are a powerful and highly efficient tool elucidating some important criterions for sperm morphological selection and sex-identification, overcoming many of the limitations associated with existing protocols.

Quantitative assessment of the degree of lipid unsaturation in intact Mortierella by Raman microspectroscopy

Fungi of the genus Mortierella can accumulate large amounts of unusual lipids depending on species, strain, and growth conditions. Fast and easy determination of key parameters of lipid quality for these samples is required. In this contribution, we apply Raman microspectroscopy to determine the degree of unsaturation for fungal lipids directly inside intact hyphae without elaborate sample handling. Six Mortierella species were grown under varying conditions, and Raman spectra of single lipid vesicles were acquired. From the spectra, we calculate a peak intensity ratio I(1270 cm(-1))/I(1445 cm(-1)) from the signals of =CH and -CH2/-CH3 groups, respectively. This ratio is linked to the iodine value (IV) using spectra of reference compounds with known IV. IVs of fungal samples are compared to gas chromatography results. Values from both methods are in good accordance. Lipid composition is found to vary between the investigated species, with Mortierella alpina having the most unsaturated lipid (IV up to 280) and Mortierella exigua the least unsaturated (IV as low as 70). We find Raman microspectroscopy a suitable tool to determine the IV reliably, fast, and easily inside intact hyphae without extensive sample handling or treatment. The method can also be transferred to other microscopic samples.

Monitoring of Microalgal Processes

Process monitoring, which can be defined as the measurement of process variables with the smallest possible delay, is combined with process models to form the basis for successful process control. Minimizing the measurement delay leads inevitably to employing online, in situ sensors where possible, preferably using noninvasive measurement methods with stable, low-cost sensors. Microalgal processes have similarities to traditional bioprocesses but also have unique monitoring requirements. In general, variables to be monitored in microalgal processes can be categorized as physical, chemical, and biological, and they are measured in gaseous, liquid, and solid (biological) phases. Physical and chemical process variables can be usually monitored online using standard industrial sensors. The monitoring of biological process variables, however, relies mostly on sensors developed and validated using laboratory-scale systems or uses offline methods because of difficulties in developing suitable online sensors. Here, we review current technologies for online, in situ monitoring of all types of process parameters of microalgal cultivations, with a focus on monitoring of biological parameters. We discuss newly introduced methods for measuring biological parameters that could be possibly adapted for routine online use, should be preferably noninvasive, and are based on approaches that have been proven in other bioprocesses. New sensor types for measuring physicochemical parameters using optical methods or ion-specific field effect transistor (ISFET) sensors are also discussed. Reviewed methods with online implementation or online potential include measurement of irradiance, biomass concentration by optical density and image analysis, cell count, chlorophyll fluorescence, growth rate, lipid concentration by infrared spectrophotometry, dielectric scattering, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Future perspectives are discussed, especially in the field of image analysis using in situ microscopy, infrared spectrophotometry, and software sensor systems.

In vivo study of lipid accumulation in the microalgae marine diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana using Raman spectroscopy

An in vivo non-invasive quantitative analysis technique was introduced for evaluating the fat composition of living marine diatoms by using Raman spectroscopy in conjunction with a chemometric method. This technique enabled the observation of real-time variations in individual lipids in diatom cells without specific treatment or fat extraction. A confocal Raman spectroscope was used to measure the marine centric diatom Thalassiosira (T.) pseudonana that was cultured under six stress conditions, and the spectral data of accumulated fatty acids were obtained. A model-based chemometrics technique, ordinary least square was then used to extract specific signals from Raman spectra obtained for a mixture of fatty acids. The levels of four major lipid moieties from diatoms were extracted simultaneously, including myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid from the Raman spectra. These results indicate that Raman spectroscopy in conjunction with a chemometrics method is reliable for the quantitative determination of the lipid composition accumulated in the cells of marine diatoms.

Candida parapsilosis biofilm identification by Raman spectroscopy

Colonies of Candida parapsilosis on culture plates were probed directly in situ using Raman spectroscopy for rapid identification of specific strains separated by a given time intervals (up to months apart). To classify the Raman spectra, data analysis was performed using the approach of principal component analysis (PCA). The analysis of the data sets generated during the scans of individual colonies reveals that despite the inhomogeneity of the biological samples unambiguous associations to individual strains (two biofilm-positive and two biofilm-negative) could be made.

Algal biomass analysis by laser-based analytical techniques--a review

Algal biomass that is represented mainly by commercially grown algal strains has recently found many potential applications in various fields of interest. Its utilization has been found advantageous in the fields of bioremediation, biofuel production and the food industry. This paper reviews recent developments in the analysis of algal biomass with the main focus on the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and partly Laser-Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma techniques. The advantages of the selected laser-based analytical techniques are revealed and their fields of use are discussed in detail.

In vivo live cell imaging for the quantitative monitoring of lipids by using Raman microspectroscopy

A straightforward in vivo monitoring technique for biomolecules would be an advantageous approach for understanding their spatiotemporal dynamics in living cells. However, the lack of adequate probes has hampered the quantitative determination of the chemical composition and metabolomics of cellular lipids at single-cell resolution. Here, we describe a method for the rapid, direct, and quantitative determination of lipid molecules from living cells using single-cell Raman imaging. In vivo localization of lipids in the form of triacylglycerol (TAG) within oleaginous microalga and their molecular compositions are monitored with high spatial resolution in a nondestructive and label-free manner. This method can provide quantitative and real-time information on compositions, chain lengths, and degree of unsaturation of fatty acids in living cells for improving the cultivating parameters or for determining the harvest timing during large-scale cultivations for microalgal lipid accumulation toward biodiesel production. Therefore, this technique is a potential tool for in vivo lipidomics for understanding the dynamics of lipid metabolisms in various organisms.

Current developments in high-throughput analysis for microalgae cellular contents

Microalgae have emerged as one of the most promising feedstocks for biofuels and bio-based chemical production. However, due to the lack of effective tools enabling rapid and high-throughput analysis of the content of microalgae biomass, the efficiency of screening and identification of microalgae with desired functional components from the natural environment is usually quite low. Moreover, the real-time monitoring of the production of target components from microalgae is also difficult. Recently, research efforts focusing on overcoming this limitation have started. In this review, the recent development of high-throughput methods for analyzing microalgae cellular contents is summarized. The future prospects and impacts of these detection methods in microalgae-related processing and industries are also addressed.

Optical trapping of microalgae at 735-1064 nm: photodamage assessment

Living microalgal cells differ from other cells that are used as objects for optical micromanipulation, in that they have strong light absorption in the visible range, and by the fact that their reaction centers are susceptible to photodamage. We trapped cells of the microalga Trachydiscus minutus using optical tweezers with laser wavelengths in the range from 735 nm to 1064 nm. The exposure to high photon flux density caused photodamage that was strongly wavelength dependent. The photochemical activity before and after exposure was assessed using a pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) technique. The photochemical activity was significantly and irreversibly suppressed by a 30s exposure to incident radiation at 735, 785, and 835 nm at a power of 25 mW. Irradiance at 885, 935 and 1064 nm had negligible effect at the same power. At a wavelength 1064 nm, a trapping power up to 218 mW caused no observable photodamage.

Rapid and in vivo quantification of cellular lipids in Chlorella vulgaris using near-infrared Raman spectrometry

A rapid and noninvasive quantification method for cellular lipids in Chlorella vulgaris is demonstrated in this study. This method applied near-infrared Raman spectroscopy to monitor the change of signal intensities at 1440 cm(-1) and 2845-3107 cm(-1) along the nitrogen depletion period, and calibration curves relating signal intensity and cellular lipid abundance were established. The calibration curves show that signal intensity at 2845-3107 cm(-1) and cellular lipid abundance were highly correlated. When the calibration curve was applied on the lipid quantification of two unknown samples, the differences between lipid abundances estimated by the calibration curve and measured by gas chromatography were less than 2 wt %. Carotenoids produced a strong and broad peak near 1440 cm(-1), and it weakened the correlation between signal intensity and lipid abundance. The consistency of detection and effects of cellular contents and water on the Raman spectrogram of Chlorella vulgaris were also addressed. The sample pretreatment only involved centrifugation, and the time required for lipid quantification was shortened to less than 1.5 h. The rapid detection has great potential in high-throughput screening of microalgae and also provides valuable information for monitoring the quality of microalgae culture and determining parameters for the mass production of biodiesel from microalgae.

Raman spectroscopy in biomedicine - non-invasive in vitro analysis of cells and extracellular matrix components in tissues

Raman spectroscopy is an established laser-based technology for the quality assurance of pharmaceutical products. Over the past few years, Raman spectroscopy has become a powerful diagnostic tool in the life sciences. Raman spectra allow assessment of the overall molecular constitution of biological samples, based on specific signals from proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates, and inorganic crystals. Measurements are non-invasive and do not require sample processing, making Raman spectroscopy a reliable and robust method with numerous applications in biomedicine. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy allows the highly sensitive discrimination of bacteria. Rama spectra retain information on continuous metabolic processes and kinetics such as lipid storage and recombinant protein production. Raman spectra are specific for each cell type and provide additional information on cell viability, differentiation status, and tumorigenicity. In tissues, Raman spectroscopy can detect major extracellular matrix components and their secondary structures. Furthermore, the non-invasive characterization of healthy and pathological tissues as well as quality control and process monitoring of in vitro-engineered matrix is possible. This review provides comprehensive insight to the current progress in expanding the applicability of Raman spectroscopy for the characterization of living cells and tissues, and serves as a good reference point for those starting in the field.

Lab on a chip technologies for algae detection: a review

Over the last few decades, lab on a chip technologies have emerged as powerful tools for high-accuracy diagnosis with minute quantities of liquid and as tools for exploring cell properties in general. In this paper, we present a review of the current status of this technology in the context of algae detection and monitoring. We start with an overview of the detection methods currently used for algae monitoring, followed by a review of lab on a chip devices for algae detection and classification, and then discuss a case study based on our own research activities. We conclude with a discussion on future challenges and motivations for algae-oriented lab on a chip technologies.

Carotenoid distribution in living cells of Haematococcus pluvialis (Chlorophyceae)

Haematococcus pluvialis is a freshwater unicellular green microalga belonging to the class Chlorophyceae and is of commercial interest for its ability to accumulate massive amounts of the red ketocarotenoid astaxanthin (3,3′-dihydroxy-β,β-carotene-4,4′-dione). Using confocal Raman microscopy and multivariate analysis, we demonstrate the ability to spectrally resolve resonance–enhanced Raman signatures associated with astaxanthin and β-carotene along with chlorophyll fluorescence. By mathematically isolating these spectral signatures, in turn, it is possible to locate these species independent of each other in living cells of H. pluvialis in various stages of the life cycle. Chlorophyll emission was found only in the chloroplast whereas astaxanthin was identified within globular and punctate regions of the cytoplasmic space. Moreover, we found evidence for β-carotene to be co-located with both the chloroplast and astaxanthin in the cytosol. These observations imply that β-carotene is a precursor for astaxanthin and the synthesis of astaxanthin occurs outside the chloroplast. Our work demonstrates the broad utility of confocal Raman microscopy to resolve spectral signatures of highly similar chromophores in living cells.

In vivo lipidomics using single-cell Raman spectroscopy

We describe a method for direct, quantitative, in vivo lipid profiling of oil-producing microalgae using single-cell laser-trapping Raman spectroscopy. This approach is demonstrated in the quantitative determination of the degree of unsaturation and transition temperatures of constituent lipids within microalgae. These properties are important markers for determining engine compatibility and performance metrics of algal biodiesel. We show that these factors can be directly measured from a single living microalgal cell held in place with an optical trap while simultaneously collecting Raman data. Cellular response to different growth conditions is monitored in real time. Our approach circumvents the need for lipid extraction and analysis that is both slow and invasive. Furthermore, this technique yields real-time chemical information in a label-free manner, thus eliminating the limitations of impermeability, toxicity, and specificity of the fluorescent probes common in currently used protocols. Although the single-cell Raman spectroscopy demonstrated here is focused on the study of the microalgal lipids with biofuel applications, the analytical capability and quantitation algorithms demonstrated are applicable to many different organisms and should prove useful for a diverse range of applications in lipidomics.