Analytical infrared spectral differences between human normal and leukaemic cells (CLL)--I.

Two series of normal and leukaemic lymphocytes were examined by infrared spectroscopy in order to try to find spectral differences connected with chemical and biological modifications. The bands at 965 and 530 cm-1 present only in the spectra of leukaemic lymphocytes, assume particular significance. The C-H stretching region furnishes useful indications about the different ratios of the methyl groups compared with the methylene ones in the two cases. The infrared bands characteristic of the leukaemic lymphocytes seem to be due to chemical modifications not involving the DNA chain.