Splicing Nanoparticles-Based "Click" SERS Could Aid Multiplex Liquid Biopsy and Accurate Cellular Imaging

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Nanotechnology
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Conventional Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) methods often rely on intensity-based readouts, which can be prone to variability.
• Multiplexed detection of biomarkers typically requires complex protocols or multiple scans.
• Existing techniques face challenges in achieving high specificity and sensitivity simultaneously.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel readout technique, termed
• Click
• SERS, for enhanced biomarker detection and cellular imaging.
• To establish a new analytical method based on the combinatorial properties of nanoparticle (NP) assemblies.
• To demonstrate the capability of
• Click
• SERS for simultaneous detection of multiple targets.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new SERS readout technique utilizing Raman scattered light splice from nanoparticle (NP) assemblies.
• Employing triple bond-containing reporters that exhibit dynamic combinatorial output through controllable NP splicing.
• Utilizing a readout principle based on the number of combinatorial emissions rather than signal intensity.

Main Results:

• Achieved 10-plex synchronous biomarker detection within a single scan.
• Demonstrated accurate cellular imaging through double exposure using the
• Click
• SERS technique.
• Validated the reliability and predictability of the combinatorial emission-based readout.

Conclusions:

• Click
• SERS offers an intuitive, predictable, and uniquely identifiable optical analysis method.
• The technique overcomes limitations of conventional intensity-dependent SERS protocols.
• Demonstrated potential for advanced applications in biomedicine, including multiplexed diagnostics and imaging.