Micron-sized dielectric chips with gold nanostructures for intracellular label-free sers

Label-free intracellular sensing using Raman spectroscopy has the potential to revolutionize the world of cell biology in a similar fashion as occurred with the invention of fluorescent labels. However, due to the weak intrinsic signals a method to enhance the Raman signal is required. By using colloidal gold and silver nanoparticles, several applications of highly sensitive and selective label-free single cell analysis have been demonstrated. On the other hand, Tip-Enhanced RS probes offer a fixed metal nano-pattern, but intracellular applications with these probes require an incision of the cell membrane during the measurement. We propose a new type of microchips, enabling reproducible and less invasive intracellular SERS measurements.