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Elsheikh S, Coles NP, Achadu OJ, Filippou PS, Khundakar AA. Advancing Brain Research through Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS): Current Applications and Future Prospects. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:33. [PMID: 38248410 PMCID: PMC10813143 DOI: 10.3390/bios14010033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has recently emerged as a potent analytical technique with significant potential in the field of brain research. This review explores the applications and innovations of SERS in understanding the pathophysiological basis and diagnosis of brain disorders. SERS holds significant advantages over conventional Raman spectroscopy, particularly in terms of sensitivity and stability. The integration of label-free SERS presents promising opportunities for the rapid, reliable, and non-invasive diagnosis of brain-associated diseases, particularly when combined with advanced computational methods such as machine learning. SERS has potential to deepen our understanding of brain diseases, enhancing diagnosis, monitoring, and therapeutic interventions. Such advancements could significantly enhance the accuracy of clinical diagnosis and further our understanding of brain-related processes and diseases. This review assesses the utility of SERS in diagnosing and understanding the pathophysiological basis of brain disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, stroke, and brain cancer. Recent technological advances in SERS instrumentation and techniques are discussed, including innovations in nanoparticle design, substrate materials, and imaging technologies. We also explore prospects and emerging trends, offering insights into new technologies, while also addressing various challenges and limitations associated with SERS in brain research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan Elsheikh
- National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, 38 John Dixon Ln, Darlington DL1 1HG, UK (N.P.C.); (O.J.A.); (P.S.F.)
| | - Nathan P. Coles
- National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, 38 John Dixon Ln, Darlington DL1 1HG, UK (N.P.C.); (O.J.A.); (P.S.F.)
| | - Ojodomo J. Achadu
- National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, 38 John Dixon Ln, Darlington DL1 1HG, UK (N.P.C.); (O.J.A.); (P.S.F.)
- School of Health and Life Science, Teesside University, Campus Heart, Southfield Rd, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, UK
| | - Panagiota S. Filippou
- National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, 38 John Dixon Ln, Darlington DL1 1HG, UK (N.P.C.); (O.J.A.); (P.S.F.)
- School of Health and Life Science, Teesside University, Campus Heart, Southfield Rd, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, UK
| | - Ahmad A. Khundakar
- National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, 38 John Dixon Ln, Darlington DL1 1HG, UK (N.P.C.); (O.J.A.); (P.S.F.)
- School of Health and Life Science, Teesside University, Campus Heart, Southfield Rd, Middlesbrough TS1 3BX, UK
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
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