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Bioanalytical Measurements Enabled by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Probes
Lauren E Jamieson1, Steven M Asiala1, Kirsten Gracie1
1Centre for Molecular Nanometrology, WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1RD, United Kingdom;
Annual Review of Analytical Chemistry (Palo Alto, Calif.)
|March 17, 2017
Summary
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) offers sensitive detection of biomolecules for improved diagnostics. This review covers SERS applications in biological analysis, from cells to in vivo studies.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), discovered in 1974, is a powerful analytical technique.
- SERS is increasingly utilized for analyzing diverse biological samples, including in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo settings.
- It provides crucial insights into biochemistry, enabling the detection of various biomolecules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the applications of SERS in bioanalytical measurements.
- To highlight key considerations for performing SERS bioanalysis.
- To discuss the advantages of SERS probes in biological environments.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on SERS applications in biological sample analysis.
- Discussion of critical factors for bioanalytical SERS: sample preparation, probe selection, instrument configuration, and data analysis.
- Examination of SERS probe capabilities for detecting small and large biomolecules.
Main Results:
- SERS enables sensitive detection and multiplexing of biomolecules like glucose, amino acids, DNA, proteins, and lipids.
- SERS applications span in vitro cell cultures, ex vivo tissues, blood samples, and direct in vivo measurements.
- The technique enhances understanding of biological systems and improves diagnostic capabilities.
Conclusions:
- SERS probes offer significant advantages in sensitivity and multiplexing for bioanalysis.
- Careful consideration of experimental parameters is essential for successful SERS bioanalytical measurements.
- SERS is a versatile tool with broad applicability in various biological research and diagnostic contexts.
