Modern optical techniques provide a bright outlook for cell analysis

The states of the body go hand in hand with the physiological states of the cell, which are closely linked with each other through cell-related molecular structures and intermolecular interactions. Studies on cell analysis are important for the development of diagnostics and biomedical research.Optical techniques reported in the literature include fluorescence, colorimetry, Raman scattering, surface-plasmon resonance and chemiluminescence, and those coupled with microfluidic systems.This article reviews studies on the methodologies and recent developments in cell analysis by optical techniques between the beginning of 2008 and early 2012.

► Cell analysis closely tied to monitoring physiological states should be significant.
► Cell analysis by optical techniques has advantages and causes less collateral damage.
► We present developments between 2008 and 2012 in cell analysis by optical techniques.