Targeted nanoparticles are provided which facilitate detection of and therapy for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The nanoparticles may be used to target other forms of cancer as well, such as pancreatic, colorectal, and breast. The nanoparticles may provide optical contrast for pre-operative diagnostic imaging and intraoperative navigation using surface-enhanced Raman scattering techniques. Moreover, the nanoparticles may inhibit tumoral growth, block tumoral blood flow, and decrease metastatic spread of GBM. The nanoparticles may further reduce the inflammatory response, which is essential to the growth of the glioma and can be harmful to the patient. The nanoparticle may comprise a biologically inert substance, a biocompatible polymer, an optical-acoustic reporter, and a glioblastoma specific receptor ligand conjugated to the biocompatible polymer. For instance, in some embodiments, the biologically inert substance may be a gold or silica nanoshell, the biocompatible polymer may be polyethylene glycol, the optical-acoustic reporter may be prussian blue, and the glioblastoma specific receptor ligand may be aprepitant.
