A critical aspect for use of nanoprobes in biomedical research and clinical applications involves fundamental spatial and temporal characterization of their uptake and distribution in cells. Raman spectroscopy and two-dimensional Raman imaging were used to identify and locate nanoprobes in single cells using surface-enhanced Raman scattering detection. To study the efficiency of cellular uptake, silver nanoparticles functionalized with three different positive-, negative-, and neutrally charged Raman labels were co-incubated with cell cultures and internalized via normal cellular processes. The surface charge on the nanoparticles was observed to modulate uptake efficiency, demonstrating a dual function of the surface modifications as tracking labels and as modulators of cell uptake. These results indicate that the functionalized nanoparticle construct has potential for sensing and delivery in single living cells and that use of surface-enhanced Raman scattering for tracking and detection is a practical and advantageous alternative to traditional fluorescence methods.

From the clinical editor

Cell labeling and tracking methods are commonly required in biomedical research. This paper presents specific functionalized nanoparticle constructs with potential for sensing and delivery in single living cells. The use of surface-enhanced Raman scattering enables tracking and detection of these cells as a practical alternative to traditional fluorescence methods.