Abstract
This chapter discusses some aspects of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) experiments inside cells of animal origin. It focuses on the properties of the nanoparticles that are used for probing, and on their interaction with the cells. First, some basic concepts of typical SERS nanoparticle-cell experiments are introduced. Then, the great potential of SERS for studies of cells and organisms are illustrated by a discussion of some of their applications such as pH nanosensors for studies in live cells. Compared to fluorescence, SERS labels provide several advantages for live cell use. Endocytosis is sensitively regulated, and serves both the uptake of nutrients as well as signaling in the cell. Spatially resolved laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) can be employed to visualize the distribution of silver and gold nanoparticles in single cells. In the case of silver nanoparticles, cytotoxicity should be considered when designing SERS nanoprobes.
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