In situ terahertz reflective spectral detection of biological tissues using a transceiver-microprobe

Terahertz (THz) reflective spectroscopy is suitable and promising for biomedical applications due to its potential to evolve into an in situ detection modality. Here, we demonstrate this feasibility by using a micrometer-sized photoconductive transceiver probe, in association with a novel home-built THz reflection-mode system to achieve simple optical path adjustment, and to closely approach the biological tissue surface to be probed, without additional measures to ensure the smoothness of the surface under test. Experimentally, a fresh sample consisting of muscle and adipose of porcine tissue was directly detected and successfully distinguished, showing the potential of in situ biomedical detection using this micro transceiver probe-based THz spectrometer.