Researchers investigated the ability of Raman spectroscopy to identify Streptococcus agalactiae. The high degree of sensitivity provided by Raman spectroscopy could prove to be a powerful diagnostic test.
Current testing methods take 1-3 days to yield results, which does not prove useful in situations requiring rapid diagnostic testing. Faster testing times will yield better treatment options using focused antibiotic therapies. The research team showed in the Journal of Biophotonics that there are specific spectral signatures for Streptococcus agalactia when applied to Raman spectroscopy.