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Intracellular pH sensors based on surface-enhanced raman scattering
Chad E Talley1, Leonard Jusinski, Christopher W Hollars
1Chemistry and Materials Science Directorate and Physics and Advanced Technologies Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue Livermore, California 94550, USA. talley1@llnl.gov
Analytical Chemistry
|December 2, 2004
Summary
We developed nanoscale pH sensors using silver nanoparticles and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). These sensors accurately detect pH changes within living cells, showing promise for biological applications.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Accurate intracellular pH monitoring is crucial for understanding cellular processes.
- Existing pH sensing methods face limitations in sensitivity and applicability within living systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate novel nanoscale pH sensors utilizing functionalized silver nanoparticles.
- To assess the sensitivity and robustness of these sensors for intracellular pH measurements.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of silver nanoparticle clusters functionalized with 4-mercaptobenzoic acid.
- Utilizing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy for signal detection.
- Testing sensor performance in solutions and within living Chinese hamster ovary cells.
Main Results:
- The functionalized silver nanoparticles exhibited a characteristic SERS response to pH variations.
- The sensors demonstrated sensitivity to pH changes in the physiologically relevant range of 6-8.
- Nanoparticle sensors maintained signal integrity and pH sensitivity when incorporated into living cells.
Conclusions:
- Functionalized silver nanoparticles coupled with SERS provide a viable platform for nanoscale pH sensing.
- These sensors are effective for monitoring pH within a cellular environment, retaining sensitivity and robustness.
- The developed technology holds potential for advancing in vivo biological and medical research.