Scientists use SERS expertise to precisely monitor single-molecule diffusion habits

A analysis crew led by Prof. Yang Liangbao from the Hefei Institutes of Bodily Science of the Chinese language Academy of Sciences has used surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to precisely monitor the diffusion habits of a single molecule within the sub-nanometer house.

The examine was printed in The Journal of Bodily Chemistry Letters.

SERS expertise, a extremely delicate and selective analytical method, allows single-molecule-level evaluation by inducing a resonance phenomenon on a metallic floor that considerably enhances the molecular Raman sign. Nevertheless, long-term monitoring of unlabeled single molecules stays a problem.

On this examine, the researchers used the superb photothermal impact of gold nanorods to assemble hotspot constructions with a niche dimension of ~ 1.0 nm utilizing laser reconstruction.

The constructed hotspot not solely offered wonderful SERS enhancement but in addition actively trapped the goal molecules, enabling real-time monitoring and evaluation of the diffusion habits of crystalline violet single molecules.

“This allowed us to watch the blinking habits of single crystalline violet molecules for durations of as much as 4 minutes utilizing dynamic surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy,” stated Yan Wuwen, a member of crew.

Combining density practical idea (DFT) calculations and SERS mapping outcomes, they concluded that the only crystalline violet molecules will be confined in sub-nanometer house.

This examine supplies a singular approach to perceive molecular interactions, chemical reactions, and the habits of biomolecules.