Specific detection of DNA through coupling of a TaqMan assay with surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS).

We have combined the benefits of a TaqMan assay with surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), to generate a novel DNA detection method which provides increased sensitivity, with clear applications for disease identification through clinical testing. Target DNA detection limits by SERS were shown to be lower than conventional fluorescence detection and clinically relevant samples of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus were detected with high specificity.