LHRH-targeting surface-enhanced Raman scattering tags for the rapid detection of circulating tumor cells

•After optimization of concentration of reporting moleculer and protecting layer, a novel SERS tags employing luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) for targeting was construsted.•A rapid and simple circulating tumor cells detection(without complex enrichment) by our SERS tags was completed.•Our detection realized enough specificity and sensivity (5 cells/ml) for detection of HeLa cells in mouse blood.