In situ cellular level Raman spectroscopy of the thyroid.

We report a novel Raman spectroscopy method for in situ cellular level analysis of the thyroid. Thyroids are harvested from control and lithium treated mice. Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder, but affects thyroid function. Raman spectra are acquired with a confocal setup (514 nm laser, 20 µm spot) focused on a follicular lumen. Raman peaks are observed at 1440, 1656, and 1746 cm-1, corresponding to tyrosine, an important amino acid for protein synthesis. Peaks are also observed at 563, 1087, 1265 and 1301 cm-1. With lithium, the tyrosine peaks increase, indicating tyrosine buildup. Raman spectroscopy can study the impact of many exogenous treatments on thyroid biochemistry.