Fiber Arrays with Nanoparticle Linkers for Multiplexed Biomarker Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analyte detection methods lack efficiency and specificity in detecting low levels of biomarkers associated with diseases, such as bladder cancer, and require improvements in sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities for simultaneous detection of multiple analytes.
Innovation Solution
A fiber array comprising a plurality of nanoparticles attached to fibers through linkers, where each nanoparticle is attached at a different location, enabling enhanced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and localized surface plasmon resonance for sensitive analyte detection, and utilizing energy transfer pairs for signal amplification and multiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional analyte detection methods are used, then detection can be performed with simple equipment, but sensitivity and detection precision are insufficient for low levels of biomarkers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite nanomaterials including gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles, and magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with analyte-specific molecules. These composite structures combine the plasmonic properties of noble metal nanoparticles for signal enhancement with the targeting capability of functionalized surfaces, achieving high sensitivity detection while maintaining a relatively simple fiber-optic-based device architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical or chemical detection systems with optical detection based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). This substitution enables highly sensitive detection of biomarkers at low concentrations by utilizing optical field enhancement from nanoparticle plasmons, achieving detection precision improvement without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If single analyte detection is performed, then detection specificity is maintained, but the ability to detect multiple analytes simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection functionality by attaching different types of nanoparticles with distinct optical signatures to the fiber array. Each nanoparticle type (gold, silver, magnetic) can be functionalized with different analyte-specific molecules, enabling simultaneous detection of multiple analytes through their unique Raman spectra or plasmon resonance characteristics, thus achieving multiplexing while maintaining detection specificity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the different optical responses (analogous to color changes) of various nanoparticle materials in SERS and LSPR measurements. Gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles, and magnetic nanoparticles exhibit distinct plasmon resonance frequencies and Raman enhancement characteristics, allowing multiplexed detection of multiple analytes simultaneously through spectral differentiation while maintaining high specificity for each target
3Reliability
If nanoparticles are attached directly to fibers without linkers, then attachment simplicity is maintained, but attachment stability and control over nanoparticle positioning are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces linker molecules as intermediaries between the fiber surface and nanoparticles. These linkers provide stable covalent or strong non-covalent attachment while controlling nanoparticle positioning and orientation. The linkers enable reliable nanoparticle attachment to the fiber array without requiring complex physical or chemical modification of the fiber itself, achieving high attachment stability with minimal increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the linker molecules (such as length, flexibility, and functional groups) to optimize nanoparticle attachment stability and positioning. By adjusting linker parameters, the system achieves controlled nanoparticle distribution and stable attachment while maintaining a relatively simple overall attachment mechanism
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 fiber array provides sensitive and specific detection of analytes, including biomarkers for bladder cancer, with improved sensitivity and the ability to detect multiple analytes simultaneously, facilitating early disease detection and treatment monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
enabling enhanced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and localized surface plasmon resonance for sensitive analyte detection
Implementation Method 2
enabling enhanced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and localized surface plasmon resonance for sensitive analyte detection
Implementation Method 3
utilizing energy transfer pairs for signal amplification and multiplexing
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes composition and method that can be used in analyte detection. Certain embodiments are directed to fiber arrays comprising plurality of nanoparticles linked to one or more fibers, where a fiber is linked to the nanoparticle through a linker. The fiber array can be provided in different sizes and shapes.