The detection and characterization of nanoplastics within biological systems, particularly within cells, is a challenging task. In this project, we propose a novel approach utilizing spectroscopic techniques to detect and analyze nanoplastics within eukaryotic cells. We intend to employ colloidal metallic nanoparticles-based surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) to enhance the vibrational signals of nanoplastics, enabling their detection and localization with high sensitivity and specificity.

Funding sources:

Funded by FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation) – BEPE Program (Research Internship Abroad Program) (number: 2024/07778-1).
FAPESP link: https://fapesp.br/