RESUMEN
This paper explores the unintentional contamination of Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrates by ambient hydrocarbon contaminants and their contribution to SERS spectra. Previous studies have identified amorphous carbon as a potential complicating factor in data analysis in SERS experiments, although its origin has been elusive. Our work showed that ambient hydrocarbon contamination and its decomposition products can be detected by SERS on a gold substrate. We propose that ambient air itself is a source of amorphous carbon contamination on SERS substrates. This understanding is crucial for the correct interpretation of SERS data and highlights the need for careful consideration of potential environmental contaminants in SERS analysis.
RESUMEN
Cancer is a complex ecosystem and should be considered in the context of its cellular and molecular microenvironment, which includes the nerves. Peripheral nerves can modulate phenotype and behavior of the malignant cells and thus affect tumor growth and metastasis. Only recently has the role of neuroimmune cross-talk surfaced as a key contributor to cancer progression. However, little is known about the immunomodulatory role of the neuroglial cells in cancer progression and metastasis and the response to therapy. Schwann cells, the principal glial cells of the peripheral nervous system, are now considered to be important players in the tumor microenvironment. They can directly accelerate malignant cell migration and the formation of metastases. Better understanding of the neuroimmune circuits in the tumor milieu will be instrumental in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the malignancies known to be associated with inflammation and dysregulated immune responses.