Metal-dielectric nanocavity as a versatile optical sensing platform

The control of various processes at nanoscale in a real time and easy manner is a challenge for different applications: from lab-on-a-chip to catalysis and medical diagnostic systems. Here, we demonstrate a new system, representing a metal-dielectric (hybrid) nanocavity for multifunctional sensing at nanoscale. The cavity provides enhancement of Raman signal and simultaneous control of the analyte temperature. We believe, the proposed concept provides a universal optical tool not only for the basic life sciences, but also for nanotechnology and nanomedicine.