Synthesis of core-shell surface-enhanced Raman tags for bioimaging

We present a rapid and straightforward procedure for the synthesis of core-shell surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) tags. SERS tags are combinations of Raman active dyes with metallic nanoparticles inducing the enhancement. Because of their significantly higher stability to environmental conditions, the majority of SERS tags are designed in core-shell geometry. The main disadvantage of this approach up to now was the time-consuming (normally days) and complex preparation of these labeled core-shell particles. The presented approach can be performed within hours on a daily base. The main characteristics and the stability of the fabricated SERS tags in extreme pH values, high ion strength, or in organic solvent is demonstrated in this communication. Furthermore, the SERS tags are functionalized with anti-Salmonella antibody as a model to present a potential application of the core-shell particles in bioimaging.