Nanoparticle imaging system and method

Abstract

An apparatus and method for imaging metallic nanoparticles. The invention teaches an apparatus and method for detection of gold colloid particles and for accurate reporting to the operator. The apparatus includes a substrate holder for holding the substrate, a processor and memory device, an imaging module, an illumination module, a an input module, and an output module. The apparatus may have a stationary substrate holder and imaging module which are proximate to one another. The apparatus provided for a compact system without the need for complex motorized devices to move a camera across the substrate. Further, the apparatus and method provide for automatic detection of the spots / wells on the substrate, automatic quantification of the spots on the substrate, and automatic interpretation of the spots based on decision statistics.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to the detection of metal nanoparticles. More particularly, the present invention provides methods and devices for detecting gold colloidal particles and reporting accurately to operators. Background technique [0002] Sequence-selective DNA testing has become increasingly important as scientists unravel the genetic basis of disease and use this new information to improve medical diagnosis and treatment. DNA hybridization assays on oligonucleotide-modified substrates are commonly used to detect the presence of specific DNA sequences in solution. The promise of combinatorial DNA arrays for probing genetic information shows the importance of these heterogeneous sequence assays for future science. [0003] Typically, the sample is placed on or in a substrate material that facilitates the hybridization assay. These materials may be glass or polymer microscope slides or glass or polymer microtiter slides. In most assays, hy...

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Problems solved by technology

[0010] Therefore, prior art solutions do not address the problem of detecting nanoparticles in a specific way

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