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Real-time kinetic binding studies at attomolar concentrations in solution phase using a single-stage opto-biosensing
Optics Express
|January 14, 2017
Summary
We developed a new optical fiber sensor using aptamers and plasmonics for ultra-sensitive, real-time detection. This attomolar-level sensing platform accurately measures thrombin in complex biological samples.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Optical fiber sensors offer potential for sensitive detection.
- Aptamers provide specific molecular recognition capabilities.
- Plasmonic devices enhance optical sensing performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a generic opto-bio-sensing platform combining aptamers and plasmonics.
- To achieve high index spectral sensitivity and attomolar detection limits.
- To demonstrate real-time kinetic studies in aqueous solutions.
Main Methods:
- Immobilization of aptamers on a nano-structured thin film plasmonic sensing device.
- Utilizing an optical fiber platform for signal transduction.
- Detection of thrombin in solution and flow cell experiments.
Main Results:
- Achieved high index spectral sensitivity (3.4 × 10^4 nm/RIU) with a figure of merit of 330.
- Demonstrated attomolar (50 aM) detection of thrombin in 1 mm^3 solution.
- Successfully detected nanomolar thrombin in the presence of albumin, covering the human thrombin generation curve.
Conclusions:
- The developed platform offers a single-stage, solution-phase, attomolar detection capability.
- The sensor enables real-time kinetic studies in water-based chemistry.
- The platform is suitable for multiplexed and remote sensing applications.
