|
ˇˇ |
Optical resonators for label-free
bio-molecular sensing |
| ˇˇ |
In this
project, we aim at developing a label-free bio-molecular detection technology for making
a highly sensitive, low-cost, integrated sensors. Such sensors fulfill
the pressing needs of an array of applications, such as point-of-care
detection of biomarkers for medical diagnosis and monitoring,
high-throughput screening in pharmaceutical drug discovery, as well as
advanced intelligence and biodefense applications.
The sensor works by
detecting refractive index changes induced by surface binding of target
molecules. Very high sensitivity can be achieved by leveraging the
strong resonant interaction between molecules and photons circulating in
an optical resonator. The detection mechanism applies for a wide range
of molecular species, including proteins (antigens), DNA strands and
small molecules (e.g. drug molecules).
Highlights of the
project include theoretical demonstration of the superior sensitivity of
resonator sensing over other optical techniques such as surface
plasmonic resonance [1], and experimental realization of sensitive
molecular detection using high-Q chalcogenide glass optofluidic
resonators [2-3]. We are also actively exploring the technology
commercialization for
point-of-care disease diagnosis [4]. |
| ˇˇ |
ˇˇ |
ˇˇ |
| ˇˇ |
 |
 |
| ˇˇ |
How the technology
works |
Point-of-care disease
detection |
| ˇˇ |
ˇˇ |
ˇˇ |
| ˇˇ |
[1]
J. Hu,
X. Sun, A. Agarwal, and L. C. Kimerling, ˇ°Design guidelines for optical
resonator biochemical sensors,ˇ± accepted for publication in J. Opt. Soc. Am. B. |
| ˇˇ |
[2] J. Hu,
N. Carlie, N. Feng, L. Petit, A. Agarwal, K. Richardson, and L. C.
Kimerling, ˇ°Planar waveguide-coupled, high-index-contrast, high-Q
resonators in chalcogenide glass for sensing,ˇ± Opt. Lett.
33, 2500-2502 (2008); select for the Virtual Journal of Biomedical Optics
4 (1). |
| ˇˇ |
[3]
(Invited)
ˇ°Planar
Chalcogenide Glass Microcavities: A Versatile Device Platform,ˇ±
8th Pacific Rim Conference on Ceramic and Glass Technology, Vancouver,
Canada (2009). |
| ˇˇ |
[4] Viral
Optics at the
MIT 100K
Entrepreneurship Competition Executive Summary Contest Finals
"We believe that this product has the potential to
change healthcare and patient treatment forever, both in the field and
in the hospitals." |