In situ evaluation of breast cancer cell growth with 3D ATR-FTIR spectroscopy

A 3D attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy is applied to the in situ monitoring of the growth of breast cancer cell (MCF-7) on a ZnSe surface. The good biocompatibility of the ZnSe crystal results in a tight adhesion of the cells on the surface, with corresponding remarkable IR signals. The series spectrum curves are corresponding to each stage of the cell growth, elucidating the distinguishing phase of the cell cycle. The characteristic absorbance bands of MCF-7 breast cancer cells shift in comparison to the spectra of breast normal cells. However, no changes are observed as compared to the spectra of dead cells with those of the live cells.