Highly sensitive SERS detection of cancer proteins in low sample volume using hollow core photonic crystal fiber

► We demonstrate high sensitive cancer protein detection by combining SERS with hollow core photonic crystal fiber (HCPCF). ► Proteins are immobilized in the inner walls of the HCPCF. ► Immobilized proteins are detected using highly sensitive antibody conjugated SERS nanotags. ► We could detect low amount of protein in an extremely low sample volume of ∼10 nL.