Researchers have developed a non-destructive method for identifying monoclonal antibody drug substances using Raman spectroscopy.
A recent study conducted at the University of Limerick in Ireland and published in Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy describes a new method for identifying monoclonal antibody drug substances using Raman spectroscopy (1).
Human monoclonal antibody that blocks SARS-CoV infection. Virus neutralization therapy. | Image Credit: © Pandagolik - stock.adobe.com
Monoclonal antibodies are widely recognized for their exceptional specificity and efficacy in treating chronic diseases. However, their complex structure poses a challenge when it comes to accurately identifying these protein-based therapeutics. Traditional analytical techniques such as sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry (MS) require extensive sample preparation and removal from their containers, leading to potential contamination and sample waste (1). Additionally, these methods often involve time-consuming processes that can take several days to complete (1).
Raman spectroscopy was used to overcome the limitations of traditional analytical techniques. As a nondestructive technique, Raman spectroscopy allows the user to identify substances based on their molecular vibrations (1). Lead author Sarah P. Hudson and her team successfully identified three monoclonal antibody drug substances without the need for sample removal or extensive preparation by using chemometrics in combination with Raman spectroscopy (1).
The team also explored variables such as laser exposure, multiple freeze–thaw cycles, and time spent outside refrigeration, to see how they influenced monoclonal antibody stability. They found that Raman spectroscopy, under less-than-ideal conditions, was able to accurately identify the protein-based drug substances using Raman spectroscopy (1).
The implications of this research for the biopharmaceutical industry are significant. The non-destructive nature of Raman spectroscopy ensures that valuable samples remain intact and can be further utilized, reducing waste and the need for additional production. Moreover, the rapidity of this technique provides a time-efficient solution for drug substance identification, streamlining the manufacturing process.
The findings show that there is a better method to use when identifying monoclonal antibody drug substances. Unlike traditional methods, Raman spectroscopy helps make identification more efficient, less resource-intensive, and faster (1). As a result, this study reveals a new advancement in biopharmaceutical analysis, showing how Raman spectroscopy can be used in more applications, including potentially in manufacturing and quality control processes.
(1) Shukla, M. K.; Wilkes, P.; Bargary, N.; Meagher, K.; Khamar, D.; Bailey, D.; Hudson, S. P. Identification of monoclonal antibody drug substances using non-destructive Raman spectroscopy. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Mol. Biomol. Spectrosc. 2023, 299, 122872. DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2023.122872
Get essential updates on the latest spectroscopy technologies, regulatory standards, and best practices—subscribe today to Spectroscopy.
Rapid Sweetener Detection Achieved Through Raman Spectroscopy and Machine Learning
July 10th 2025Researchers at Heilongjiang University have developed a rapid and accurate method for detecting sweeteners in food using Raman spectroscopy combined with a Random Forest machine learning algorithm, offering a powerful tool for improving food safety.
AI Boosts SERS for Next Generation Biomedical Breakthroughs
July 2nd 2025Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University are harnessing artificial intelligence to elevate surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for highly sensitive, multiplexed biomedical analysis, enabling faster diagnostics, imaging, and personalized treatments.
Nanometer-Scale Studies Using Tip Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
February 8th 2013Volker Deckert, the winner of the 2013 Charles Mann Award, is advancing the use of tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) to push the lateral resolution of vibrational spectroscopy well below the Abbe limit, to achieve single-molecule sensitivity. Because the tip can be moved with sub-nanometer precision, structural information with unmatched spatial resolution can be achieved without the need of specific labels.
Artificial Intelligence Accelerates Molecular Vibration Analysis, Study Finds
July 1st 2025A new review led by researchers from MIT and Oak Ridge National Laboratory outlines how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the study of molecular vibrations and phonons, making spectroscopic analysis faster, more accurate, and more accessible.
AI and Dual-Sensor Spectroscopy Supercharge Antibiotic Fermentation
June 30th 2025Researchers from Chinese universities have developed an AI-powered platform that combines near-infrared (NIR) and Raman spectroscopy for real-time monitoring and control of antibiotic production, boosting efficiency by over 30%.