Hybrid lipid-AuNP clusters as highly efficient SERS substrates for biomedical applications
Jacopo Cardellini, Caterina Dallari, Ilaria De Santis, Lorenzo Riccio, Costanza Ceni, Amelia Morrone, Martino Calamai, Francesco S. Pavone, Caterina Credi, Costanza Montis, Debora Berti
Abstract
Although Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) is widely applied for ultrasensitive diagnostics and imaging, its potential is largely limited by the difficult preparation of SERS tags, typically metallic nanoparticles (NPs) functionalized with Raman-active molecules (RRs), whose production often involves complex synthetic approaches, low colloidal stability and poor reproducibility. Here, we introduce LipoGold Tags, a simple platform where gold NPs (AuNPs) clusters form via self-assembly on lipid vesicle. RRs embedded in the lipid bilayer experience enhanced electromagnetic field, significantly increasing their Raman signals. We modulate RRs and lipid vesicle concentrations to achieve optimal SERS enhancement and we provide robust structural characterization. We further demonstrate the versatility of LipoGold Tags by functionalizing them with biomolecular probes, including antibodies. As proof of concept, we successfully detect intracellular GM1 alterations, distinguishing healthy donors from patients with infantile GM1 gangliosidosis, showcasing LipoGold Tags as advancement in SERS probes production. Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) detection is often limited by difficulties in preparing adequate tags – normally metallic nanoparticles (NPs) functionalised with Raman-active molecules. Here, the authors introduce LipoGold Tags, a platform where clusters of gold NPs self-assemble on lipid vesicles. These tags are used for SERS detection.