In recent years, microRNA’s (miRNA’s) have emerged as important in regulating gene expression. Fluctuations in their levels are associated with the up or down-regulation of tumor-suppressor genes and oncogenes. Thus, the ability to visualize changes in miRNA is an important step in understanding cancer emergence and development. The Burrows group...
Gold nanostars are a relative newcomer to the nanoparticle scene, and their unique properties make them very desirable for spectroscopic applications. These nanoparticles, with their sharp tips, create electric field enhancements that interact with light in an advantageous way. This Thesis outlines our in-depth study of gold nanostar synthesis, the...