Revolutionary Microscopy: ITMO Develops Hybrid Device for Cell Research
Scientists at ITMO University in St. Petersburg have developed a unique device combining atomic force microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, enabling simultaneous topographical and chemical analysis of cells.
Integrated Technology for Advanced Analysis
The new device merges two powerful techniques. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) uses a nanoscale probe to 'feel' the surface of a sample, generating a high-resolution 3D topographic map. This allows researchers to study cellular surface structures with exceptional precision.
Raman spectroscopy, meanwhile, analyzes light scattering to determine the chemical composition of cell membranes. The synchronization of both methods in a single system provides a comprehensive analysis of mechanical, topographical, and biochemical properties of cells. Built-in software automatically processes the data, simplifying result interpretation and making the technology accessible even to users without deep expertise in spectroscopy.
Scientific and Medical Significance
The ITMO innovation carries significant implications for biomedicine. Researchers can simultaneously examine both the structure and chemical composition of cellular membranes—an essential factor in developing biocompatible materials such as implants and in ensuring quality control of cell cultures.
The device facilitates analysis of cell-surface interactions, opening new frontiers in regenerative medicine and biomaterial development. For Russia, it accelerates scientific advancement and strengthens its position in biotechnology. For the global community, the system provides a cost-effective solution for laboratories lacking access to expensive equipment, especially in developing countries.
Application Potential and Portability
The system has already been integrated into ITMO’s 'chemical cube'—a compact, automated mini-laboratory developed in 2023. This portable unit enables decentralized research, enhancing mobility and reducing dependence on large centralized facilities.
With clear documentation and user-friendly interfaces, the device has strong export potential. When mass-produced, it could become a competitive player in the affordable scientific equipment market, especially appealing to universities and laboratories in budget-constrained regions.
Future integration with artificial intelligence may further expand its capabilities—potentially enabling automated diagnosis of cell states and biocompatibility assessments, thus broadening its application horizon.
Context and Competitive Advantages
Over the past five years, both Russian and global research communities have increasingly focused on hybrid analytical systems. While combinations like scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy are well-established, Raman-based analysis of cell membrane chemistry remains a relatively new niche.
Russia’s growing focus on medical biomaterials, including implants and regenerative medicine, has created strong demand for precision analytical tools. ITMO’s chemical cube initiative, launched in 2023, aligns with this trend and reflects the rising interest in portable laboratories.
While AFM-optics combinations exist globally, ITMO’s device stands out for its versatility and affordability. Automated analysis reduces user qualification requirements, and its potentially lower cost compared to imported counterparts makes it internationally competitive. This is particularly valuable for resource-limited labs where precision instruments remain out of reach.
By combining AFM and Raman spectroscopy in a compact, accessible format, the ITMO system advances research in biomedicine and materials science—strengthening Russia’s position in biotech while delivering global benefits through cost-effective scientific innovation.
