Raman Scattering Spectroscopy on Strawberry DNA

Raman scattering spectroscopies are important analytical tools in modern chemistry. Here, we describe the construction of the unamplified Raman scattering analysis (URSA) instrument: an inexpensive, open-table Raman spectrometer that uses a 532 nm diode-pumped laser as a light source. Upon application of this spectrometer to DNA extracted from strawberries with a soap solution and precipitated in isopropanol, two major Raman peaks with shifts of 740 and 2970 cm-1 were observed, consistent with previously published DNA Raman spectra. In this general article, we discuss the potential implementation of this work in an upper-level undergraduate laboratory, which would allow for hands-on exposure to both spectroscopic instrumental design and biochemical sample complexity.