Multiplexing SERS nanotags for the imaging of differentiated mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) and detection of teratoma in vivo.

Herein, we report fifty four membered, a new set of novel NIR Raman reporters and CyRLA-572 has been selected to be the best among them considering the signal intensity and stability. This new reporter molecule is an excellent partner with our in house Raman reporters (Cy7LA and Cy7.5LA). These three NIR Raman reporters are adsorbed on the gold nanoparticles to obtain their corresponding unique SERS fingerprints in which three individual characteristic peaks are capable to multiplex among them. These multiplexed Raman reporters are applied to develop biocompatible and specific targeting SERS nanotags after tagging with specific antibodies. These multiplex targeted SERS nanotags are applied to detect three targeting receptors in differentiated mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) consisting three germ layers such as ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm. After successful recognition of cells by SERS techniques, we detect simultaneously three germ layers in teratoma which is a monster tumor formed from mESC cells in animal xenograft model.