From nanoparticles to artificial tumors: A lifetime scientific journey 

Nanoplasmonics can be defined as the science studying the manipulation of light using materials of size much smaller than the radiation wavelength. This technology finds applications in various fields including sensing and diagnostics. An essential component of nanoplasmonics are nanostructured noble metals, which absorb and scatter light efficiently, through coherent oscillations of conduction electrons. Although the remarkable optical response of “finely divided” metals is well known since more than 150 years ago, the recent development of sophisticated characterization and modelling methods has dramatically reactivated the field. This talk will provide an overview of the gradual shift in research approach, from colloidal synthesis methods, through self-assembly, optimization of plasmonic properties and ultimately performance in biosensing applications. Several examples will be presented in which nanostructured materials comprising gold nanoparticles have been used as substrates for ultrasensitive detection of biorelevant molecules.