Investigation of Dual Plasmonic Core-Shell Ag@Cus Nanoparticles for Potential Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy-Guided Photothermal Therapy

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> To prepare efficient metal-semiconductor nanoparticles as noninvasive, real-time imaging probes for photothermal therapy (PTT) applications. <b>Materials & methods:</b> A bottom-up approach was used to fabricate core-shell Ag@CuS nanoparticles (NPs). PTT and Raman mapping were done using HeLa cells. Theoretical simulation of electric field enhancement and heat dissipation density of Ag@CuS NPs was performed. <b>Results:</b> PTT-induced hyperthermia was achieved under 940 nm near-infrared light irradiation. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) signals of dye molecules were observed when conjugated with Ag@CuS NPs. <b>Conclusion:</b> Ag@CuS NPs are found to be efficient for SERS imaging and localized heating under laser irradiation, making a promising candidate for SERS-guided PTT.