Wide-Field Multiplexed Imaging of EGFR-Targeted Cancers Using Topical Application of NIR SERS Nanoprobes

AIM: As the possibilities of molecular imaging in personalized medicine evolve rapidly, the optical advantages of extremely narrow and intense spectral bands makes surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) an appealing candidate for multiplexed recognition of targeted biomarkers over other optical imaging modalities. MATERIALS & METHODS: In this proof-of-concept study, we report wide-field Raman detection of lung cancer using multimodal SERS nanoprobes specific to the EGF receptor family, both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS: For the first time, we demonstrate wide-field multiplexed Raman imaging for cancer detection in vivo after topical application of a 'cocktail' of SERS nanoprobes. CONCLUSION: This advancement represents a key step towards sensitive wide-field Raman endoscopic imaging of multiple biomarkers for early and accurate diagnosis of EGF receptor-expressing tumors of different internal organs.