Accurate and sensitive total genomic DNA methylation analysis from sub-nanogram input with embedded SERS nanotags.

Sensitive and accurate total genomic DNA methylation analysis was demonstrated by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) via embedded internal SERS nanotags. The assay was sensitive to 0.2 ng input DNA while differentiating as low as 6.25% changes in DNA methylation. The method could also successfully differentiate cells before and after de-methylating drug-treatment and between tumor and normal biopsies.