Design of Raman active Phospholipid Gold Nanoparticles for Plasmonics based Tumour Detection and Imaging

Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and one third of its burden can be decreased with early detection. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) based imaging is a promising new technique for non-invasive detection of tumours due to its ultra-sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities. For in vivo SERS molecular imaging, a biocompatible, robust and targeted nanoparticle is required to attain high sensitivity and specificity. In this thesis, a SERS capable gold nanoparticle was rationally designed by encapsulation with a phospholipid bilayer which conferred biocompatibility, colloidal stability and versatility to changing surface chemistry. Moreover, validation of this SERS probe with a specific targeting ligand for carcinoma cells was studied through the targeting of a commonly overexpressed cancer receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor. Using this phospholipid design, optimizations with differing chemistries, targeting ligand or modifications for additional functionalities can be achieved for further development as a viable in vivo molecular imaging tool.