Applications of SERS
•Bioanalysis:
•SERS
is used to analyze biomolecules like DNA, RNA, proteins, and other cellular components, making it valuable
for
diagnostics and research in life sciences. It can also be used to detect cancer markers, bacteria, and viruses.
•Medical Diagnosis and Treatment:
•SERS
can be used for label-free detection of various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and
inflammatory
conditions. It can also be used to monitor drug efficacy and personalize treatments.
•Environmental Monitoring:
•SERS
is employed for detecting pollutants, toxins, and other harmful substances in water, air, and soil. This includes
the
detection of pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
•Food Safety:
•SERS
can be used to detect foodborne pathogens, toxins, and adulterants, ensuring the safety and quality of food
products.
•Material Science:
•SERS
is used to study the properties and behavior of various materials, including nanomaterials and thin films.
•Pharmaceuticals:
•SERS
is used in drug discovery, drug analysis, and drug delivery studies. It can help in understanding drug-target
interactions
and optimizing drug formulations.
•Forensics:
•SERS
is used for trace evidence analysis, such as detecting gunshot residue, explosives, and other illicit substances.
•Explosives Detection:
•SERS
is a valuable tool for detecting explosives and other hazardous materials due to its high sensitivity and ability
to
identify molecules even at very low concentrations.
•Art Conservation and Cultural Heritage:
•SERS
can be used to analyze pigments, dyes, and other materials used in art and cultural artifacts, aiding in their
preservation
and restoration.
•Point-of-Care Diagnostics:
•SERS-based
sensors are being developed for use in point-of-care diagnostics, enabling rapid and accurate testing in
settings
outside of traditional laboratories.