Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and one third of its burden can be decreased with early detection. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) based imaging is a promising new technique for non-invasive detection of tumours due to its ultra-sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities. For in vivo SERS molecular imaging, a biocompatible, robust and targeted nanoparticle is required to attain high sensitivity and specificity. In this thesis, a SERS capable gold nanoparticle was rationally designed by encapsulation with a phospholipid bilayer which conferred biocompatibility, colloidal stability and versatility to changing surface chemistry. Moreover, validation of this SERS probe with a specific targeting ligand for carcinoma cells was studied through the targeting of a commonly overexpressed cancer receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor. Using this phospholipid design, optimizations with differing chemistries, targeting ligand or modifications for additional functionalities can be achieved for further development as a viable in vivo molecular imaging tool.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:TORONTO/oai:tspace.library.utoronto.ca:1807/31462 |
| Date | 20 December 2011 |
| Creators | Tam, Natalie Chin Mun |
| Contributors | Zheng, Gang, Wilson, Brian Campbell |
| Source Sets | University of Toronto |
| Language | en_ca |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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