Biomolecule Sensor Using Photon Up-Conversion Nanoparticles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensors for detecting biomolecules, particularly in neuronal research, face limitations such as low signal intensities, background fluorescence, and poor signal-to-noise ratios, and are often not suitable for real-time in vivo or in vitro imaging due to their off-line nature and lack of specificity.
Innovation Solution
A sensor with a biocompatible sensing layer comprising a polymer matrix or gel matrix embedded with organic nanoparticles capable of photon up-conversion emission in the presence of analytes, optionally including plasmonic metal nanoparticles, which allows for specific detection of biomolecules by emitting light only when analytes are present.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If fluorescence probes are used for live cell imaging, then cell imaging is enabled, but signal intensity is low and background fluorescence is high leading to poor signal-to-noise ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using photon up-conversion nanoparticles that absorb at infrared wavelengths (1000-1700 nm) and emit at visible wavelengths (400-700 nm). This parameter change allows detection in the infrared window where biological tissues are transparent and autofluorescence is minimal, thereby reducing background noise while maintaining high signal intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite nanoparticle structures combining organic emitters with inorganic metal nanoparticles (gold, silver, copper) that provide plasmonic enhancement. This composite approach amplifies the signal through plasmonic effects while the organic components provide the up-conversion functionality, achieving both high signal intensity and reduced background fluorescence.
2Measurement precision
If HPLC and luminescence-based methods are used for biomolecule detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the techniques are off-line and cannot be used for real-time in vivo or in vitro imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical separation methods (HPLC) with optical detection methods using photon up-conversion nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are introduced into the biological sample and directly detect biomolecules through their up-conversion emission signal, eliminating the need for complex mechanical separation systems while enabling real-time imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses photon up-conversion nanoparticles as intermediary agents that bridge the detection system and the biomolecules. These nanoparticles absorb infrared light and convert it to visible light, serving as a mediator that enables sensitive detection of biomolecules in real-time without requiring complex sample preparation or separation procedures.
3Measurement precision
If fluorescent cell labeling materials are used, then cell detection is enabled, but batch-to-batch variations occur and unspecific binding properties arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection mechanism from fluorescence to photon up-conversion emission. This parameter change eliminates the batch-to-batch variations inherent in fluorescent dyes by using a physical optical effect (up-conversion) that is more reproducible. The nanoparticles provide consistent optical properties across batches while maintaining high specificity through their unique up-conversion characteristics.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fluorophore-doped polymer layers are used for sensing, then cell growth is enabled, but the layers lack specificity and only detect presence of cells rather than specific analytes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional sensing layer that combines cell-compatible polymer matrices with photon up-conversion nanoparticles. This universal platform can support cell growth while simultaneously detecting specific analytes through the up-conversion signal, enabling both cell culture and specific biomolecule detection in the same system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces photon up-conversion nanoparticles as intermediary elements within the polymer sensing layer. These nanoparticles serve as mediators that provide specific analyte detection capability while the polymer matrix maintains cell compatibility. The nanoparticles act as the sensing function while the polymer provides the biocompatible environment.
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
The sensor provides a high signal-to-background ratio, enabling non-invasive, quantitative, and sensitive detection of biomolecules with improved spatial and temporal resolution, reducing potential damage to cells and tissues while maintaining stability and specificity.
Implementation Method 1
organic nanoparticles capable of emitting light by photon up-conversion emission in the presence of said analyte
Implementation Method 2
sensor further optionally includes plasmonic metal nanoparticles
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sensor for the detection of analytes, in particular for the detection of biomolecules. The sensor includes a (bio)compatible sensing layer including a polymer matrix or gel matrix, particularly a polymer gel matrix, organic nanoparticles and, optionally, one or several cell adhesion layer(s). The cell adhesion layer(s) can be varied depending on the type of cells. In the presence of the analytes, the organic nanoparticles are capable of photon up-conversion emission. The sensor further optionally includes plasmonic metal nanoparticles. The present disclosure further relates to methods of producing such a sensor and to uses of such a sensor.