Surface enhanced Raman scattering based molecule detection using self-assembled DNA nanostructures

A novel method of Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) based molecular detection was developed using self-assembled DNA nanostructures. Molecule detection using rigid, shape-controllable DNA nanostructures provides significant advantages such as accurate control of the particle distance and geometrical programmability of the DNA nanostructure. We successfully detected the Cy3 dye, a Raman-active molecule, at 1461, 1590, and 1619 cm−1 using a Ag-enhanced Au-DNA nanostructure. Consequently, DNA-guided SERS detection is expected to contribute significantly to molecular detecting systems in the near future.