Biomolecular Detection via Coherent Light Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biomolecular detection methods, such as fluorescence and surface plasmon resonance, are not suitable for quantitative analysis in high-density receptor arrays due to the need for labeled targets and enzymatic color changes, limiting their ability for label-free detection and multiplexing.
Innovation Solution
A biomolecular detection system that uses coherent light to illuminate a receptor with a translucent coating, passing the reflected signal through an imaging lens to minimize diffraction patterns and fringes, enabling quantitative detection of biomolecules in a highly multiplexed format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluorescence or colorimetric methods are used for biomolecular detection, then molecular recognition can be detected, but additional labeled antibodies and enzymatic mechanisms are required, adding complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for fluorescent labels, enzymes, and complex chemical tags by using label-free optical detection. The system directly detects biomolecular binding events through changes in optical properties of the receptor coating itself, removing superfluous components while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system using coherent light and interferometric detection to bridge the gap between simple receptor binding and quantitative measurement. The optical field acts as an intermediary that translates molecular binding events into measurable intensity changes without requiring chemical labels
2Productivity
If high density receptor arrays are implemented, then multiplexed detection is enabled, but diffraction patterns and fringe patterns increase, reducing image quality and quantitative accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using coherent light with specific wavelengths and adjusting the optical path configuration to minimize diffraction effects. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves high-resolution imaging of dense arrays while maintaining quantitative accuracy through reduced fringe patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copying through the imaging lens to create a diffraction-minimized replica of the receptor array on the detector. This optical copy allows quantitative analysis of high-density arrays by reproducing the spatial distribution of bound molecules with reduced diffraction artifacts
3Device complexity
If label-free detection is used, then simplicity and reduced cost are achieved, but quantitative detection capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical/chemical labeling systems with an optical field-based detection system. By using coherent light interference and intensity modulation, the system achieves quantitative detection capability without mechanical or chemical tags, replacing complex labeling mechanisms with optical physics
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances intensity determination and allows for the quantitative detection of biomolecules in high-density arrays, improving sensitivity and array resolution, enabling the imaging of thousands of detection sites simultaneously and reducing the risk of false positives.
Implementation Method 1
a receptor disposed in the beam path to reflect the beam, the receptor forming a reflected beam along the beam path
Implementation Method 2
compensating for diffraction effects in an image of the target. The method also includes passing the reflected signal of the target through an imaging lens or optical system intermediate the receptor and a detector
Implementation Method 3
minimizing interference fringe patterns in an image of the target
Data Source
AI summary
A method of sensing at least one target on a receptor having a substrate and a translucent coating includes minimizing interference fringe patterns in an image of the target. The method also includes passing the image of the target through an imaging system intermediate the receptor and a detector.