Raman-based FACS and microfluidics allow for label-free sorting of over 1,000 microbial cells per second, application to astaxanthin production

The group of Kotaro HIRAMATSU at the University of Tokyo has combined Raman-based FACS with high-throughput microfluidics. In order to accelerate Raman spectroscopy, Fast Fourier Transform Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering Spectroscopy (Fast FT-CARS Method) was used which allows to measure about 24,000 broadband Raman spectra per second. If applied to nitrogen-depleted Hematococcus strains, the production of astaxanthin could be measured over time at the single cell level.

JST news release, January 17, 2018