Palm-Sized Sensor Detects Disease-Causing Microbes

A device developed for detecting disease-causing microbes relies on the interaction of their DNA, proteins, or cells when light is shone on their nanostructured surface.

Most existing biosensors of this type require an external power source, a complex and costly analyzer, and an external personal computer to report the results. The new-generation of self-contained analyzers relies on simpler components, in this case four pulse-powered light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that light up in specific patters to produce test results without a computer. The different emission spectra and reflected light beams from all LEDs are detected by a single photodiode.

Dr. Pavel Neuzil and Dr. Julien Reboud of the Institute of Microelectronics (Singapore Science Park II, Singapore) described a complete palm-sized, battery-operated biodetection system based on highly sensitive localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in the July 1, 2008 online issue of the journal Analytical Chemistry. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) has become a standard, label-free method for the detection of proteins and other biomolecules. It is based on the excitation of a surface plasmon at the interface between a dielectric and a thin layer of metal, typically gold.

Ideal for point-of-care diagnostics as well as for field detection of pathogens, even in remote areas, the analyzer also instantly detects toxins and other biologic threats.


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