Gold-coated magnetic nanoparticles for optical signal enhancement

PHYS 476

Emily R. Fox, erfox@ucsc.edu, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, 230 Physical Sciences Bldg, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
A new method has been developed for the synthesis of Gold-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles which are SERS-active and can be easily concentrated with the use of a magnet for optical signal enhancement. Magnetic concentration provides an alternative to centrifugation, which can damage delicate specimens. Gentle concentration of particles with easily functionalized gold surfaces shows promise for utilization in various biological applications, including the possible detection of Cancer biomarkers present in blood serum at low concentrations.