Multiplexed label-free optical biosensor for medical diagnostics

J Biomed Opt. 2014 Jan;19(1):17006. doi: 10.1117/1.JBO.19.1.017006.

Abstract

This paper describes a new multiplexed label-free biosensor. The detection technology is based on nanostructured gold-polymer surfaces. These surfaces support surface plasmon resonance modes that can be probed by a miniaturized optical setup. The optical characterization of the sensing chip shows the sensitivity and the limit-of-detection to refractive index changes. Moreover, by studying the progressive adhesion of molecular monolayers of polyelectrolytes, the decay of the plasmonic mode electric field above the surface has been reconstructed. A multiplexed label-free biosensing device is then described and characterized in terms of sensitivity, lateral resolution, and sensitivity to a model biological assay. The sensitivity in imaging mode of the device is of the order of 10-6 refractive index units, while the measured lateral resolution is 6.25 μm within a field of view of several tenths of mm2, making the instrument unique in terms of multiplexing capability. Finally, the proof-of-concept application of the technology as a point-of-care diagnostic tool for an inflammatory marker is demonstrated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Calibration
  • Electrolytes
  • Gold / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Nanostructures
  • Nanotechnology / instrumentation
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Optics and Photonics*
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Rats
  • Refractometry
  • Sepsis / diagnosis*
  • Serum Albumin, Bovine / chemistry
  • Surface Plasmon Resonance / instrumentation

Substances

  • Electrolytes
  • Polymers
  • Serum Albumin, Bovine
  • Gold