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Plasmonic Interferometer Array Biochip as a New Mobile Medical Device for Cancer Detection
Xie Zeng1, Yunchen Yang2, Nan Zhang1
1Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA.
We developed a plasmonic interferometer array (PIA) sensor for real-time, sensitive detection of exosomal proteins. This low-cost device enables early cancer detection using a smartphone-coupled microscope.
Area of Science:
- Plasmonics and Nanophotonics
- Biomedical Sensing
- Cancer Biomarkers
Background:
- Early cancer detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Exosomal proteins are promising biomarkers for various cancers.
- Current detection methods often lack sensitivity, speed, or portability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a novel plasmonic interferometer array (PIA) sensor.
- To enable sensitive, real-time detection of circulating exosomal proteins.
- To provide a low-cost, portable platform for early cancer diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a plasmonic interferometer array with nano-groove rings and a central nano-aperture.
- Utilizing surface plasmon wave interference to generate an intensity pattern.
- Real-time monitoring of intensity changes caused by exosomal protein capture via antibody binding, altering local refractive index.
Main Results:
- Achieved a superior sensing resolution of 1.63×10-6 refractive index unit (RIU) for refractive index changes.
- Demonstrated exosome detection resolution of 3.86×108 exosomes/mL by integrating signals from multiple sensor pairs.
- Developed a portable system using a miniaturized microscope and smartphone, achieving a detection resolution of 9.72×109 exosomes/mL.
Conclusions:
- The PIA sensor offers high sensitivity and real-time detection capabilities for exosomal proteins.
- The developed system is low-cost, portable, and suitable for early cancer screening.
- This technology has the potential to significantly advance non-invasive cancer diagnostics.
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