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Abstract:
Single molecule surface enhanced Raman scattering (SM-SERS) is a highly local effect occurring at sharp edges,} interparticle junctions and crevices or other geometries with a sharp nanoroughness of plasmonic nanostructures ({"}hot spots{"}). The emission of an individual molecule at SM-SERS conditions depends on the local enhancement field of the hot spots{,} as well as the binding affinity and positioning at a hot spot region. In this regard{,} the stability of near-field nano-optics at hot spots is critical{,} particularly in a biological milieu. In this perspective review{,} we address recent advances in the experimental and theoretical approaches for the successful development of SM-SERS. Significant progress in the understanding of the interaction between the excitation electromagnetic field and the surface plasmon modes at the metallic or metallic/dielectric interface of various curvatures are described. New knowledge on methodological strategies for positioning the analytes for SM-SERS and Raman-assisted SERS or the SERS imaging of live cells has been acquired and displayed. In the framework of the extensive development of SM-SERS as an advancing diagnostic analytical technique{,} the real-time SERS chemical imaging of intracellular compartments and tracing of individual analytes has been achieved. In this context{, we highlight the tremendous potential of SERS chemical imaging as a future prospect in SERS and SM-SERS for the prediction and diagnosis of diseases.
