Aggregation enhanced fluorescence and Raman signals for highly sensitive cancer detection

The implementation of early cancer detection benefits the treatment outcomes with remarkably improved survival rate through the detection of rare circulating biomarkers in body fluids. Spectroscopic technologies play a crucial role in sensitive biomarker measurements by outputting extremely strong signals. In particular, the aggregation enhanced fluorescence and Raman technologies feature the detection of targets down to single molecule level, thereby demonstrating the great promise of early cancer detection. In this review, we focus on the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) and aggregation-related surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopic strategies for detecting cancer biomarkers. We discuss the AIE and SERS based biomarker detection using target-driven aggregation as well as the aggregated nanoprobes. Furthermore, we deliberate on the progress of developing AIE and SERS integrated platforms. Ultimately, we put forth the potential challenges and perspectives on the way to use these two spectroscopic technologies in clinical settings. It is expected this review can inspire the design of AIE and SERS integrated platform for highly sensitive and accurate cancer detection.

Automated summary

The implementation of early cancer detection through the detection of rare circulating biomarkers in body fluids has greatly improved treatment outcomes and survival rates. Spectroscopic technologies, especially aggregation-enhanced fluorescence and Raman technologies, play a crucial role in sensitive biomarker measurements by outputting extremely strong signals, showing great promise for early cancer detection.