I have plastic samples (formalin-fixed fish stomach contents) for spectroscopy (Raman) analysis. However, these samples don't match those found in the literature. Could formaldehyde fixation alter the spectrum of these samples?
I would think it highly likely that formalin will react with the stomach contents depending on what they are. Could you show one of your spectra and a reference so that we can see the differences you refer to which could be from other artifacts ?
Yes, it can, you use 4% PFA? formaldehyde cause holes in the cell-wall, so small metabolites / RNA do leak or degrade. Ideally, you want to proceed with a control to see how tissue reacts (and identify which peaks are most affected. When I tried on bacteria it was RNA & protein peaks). Keep your samples at low temperature/protected from light is also important.
Thank you for the answers, unfortunately i don't have the spectra with me, but we will perform a few tests to solve this issue.
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