NIR-II Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Nanoprobes in Biomedicine: Current Impact and Future Directions

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Nanotechnology
• Optical Imaging
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoprobes are crucial for biomedical applications.
• The second near-infrared (NIR-II) window offers advantages like reduced tissue attenuation and deeper penetration.
• NIR-II SERS nanoprobes combine the sensitivity of SERS with the benefits of the NIR-II window.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in NIR-II SERS nanoprobes for biomedical applications.
• To discuss future directions and challenges in the development and translation of these nanoprobes.
• To highlight the potential of NIR-II SERS nanoprobes in diagnostics and therapeutics.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on NIR-II SERS nanoprobes.
• Discussion of fundamental principles of SERS and NIR-II imaging.
• Analysis of advancements in nanoprobe substrates, Raman reporters, and detection techniques.

Main Results:

• NIR-II SERS nanoprobes exhibit reduced tissue attenuation, deep penetration, and improved photostability.
• Key advances include tailored metallic and non-metallic substrates, optimized Raman reporters, and AI-driven design.
• Emerging deep Raman techniques and instrumental improvements enhance through-tissue detection and imaging speed.

Conclusions:

• NIR-II SERS nanoprobes show significant promise for biomedical diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Further research is needed in substrate refinement, reporter design, AI integration, and biosafety.
• Clinical translation requires addressing functionalization, compatibility, and regulatory pathways.