Reaction-Based SERS Probes for the Detection of Raman-Inactive Species.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has the advantages of high sensitivity, low water interference, narrow spectral peaks for multicomponent analysis, and rich molecular fingerprint information, presenting great potential to be a robust analytical technology. However, a key issue is the unavailability in directly detecting Raman-inactive species with a small Raman scattering cross-section. Current research has addressed this issue by using specific chemical reactions to induce significant characteristic changes in SERS signals, enabling the sensitive and selective detection of Raman-inactive species.

Cell membrane-targeted surface enhanced Raman scattering nanoprobes for the monitoring of hydrogen sulfide secreted from living cells.

Hydrogen sulfide (HS), an important gas signal molecule, participates in intercellular signal transmission and plays a considerable role in physiology and pathology. However, in-situ monitoring of HS level during the processes of material transport between cells remains considerably challenging. Herein, a cell membrane-targeted surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoprobe was designed to quantitatively detect HS secreted from living cells.

Schiff Base Reaction in a Living Cell: In Situ Synthesis of a Hollow Covalent Organic Polymer To Regulate Biological Functions.

Artificially performing chemical reactions in living biosystems to attain various physiological aims remains an intriguing but very challenging task. In this study, the Schiff base reaction was conducted in cells using Sc(OTf) as a catalyst, enabling the in situ synthesis of a hollow covalent organic polymer (HCOP) without external stimuli. The reversible Schiff base reaction mediated intracellular Oswald ripening endows the HCOP with a spherical, hollow porous structure and a large specific surface area.