Optical Biomolecule Detection Using Low-Coherence Light to Reduce Speckle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label-free biomolecule interaction analysis methods require coherent light sources, leading to high costs and speckle noise, limiting sensitivity and applicability, especially for small analytes.
Innovation Solution
A device using low coherent or non-coherent light sources with dispersive elements to reduce speckle noise and enhance sensitivity, allowing for broader applicability and reduced complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coherent light sources are used for biomolecule interaction analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but speckle noise increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the harmful speckle noise component from the optical detection system by using non-coherent light sources instead of coherent ones, thereby eliminating the primary source of speckle noise while maintaining detection capability through alternative optical mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the coherence parameter of the light source from coherent to non-coherent, fundamentally altering the optical properties to reduce speckle noise while maintaining sufficient signal intensity for biomolecule detection through adjusted optical path and detection parameters
2Measurement precision
If coherent light sources are used for biomolecule interaction analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex coherent light sources (lasers) with cheaper, simpler non-coherent light sources (LEDs, halogen lamps), reducing device cost and complexity while maintaining adequate detection performance through optimized optical detection parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes complex coherent optical systems with simpler non-coherent optical systems, replacing the need for precise laser coherence control and alignment mechanisms with more tolerant non-coherent light sources that require less complex optical bench arrangements
3Measurement precision
If conventional optical methods are used for detecting small analytes, then detection capability is limited, but sensitivity requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances detection sensitivity for small analytes by optimizing the optical detection in the angular dimension through diffraction pattern analysis, allowing detection of smaller mass changes that correspond to lower analyte concentrations or smaller analyte sizes
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 device achieves a significant reduction in speckle noise by at least 50%, enhancing sensitivity and reducing costs, enabling detection of smaller analytes with improved signal-to-noise ratio.
Implementation Method 1
at least a part of the light generates an evanescent field of light propagating along the surface provided with the binding sites
Implementation Method 2
the evanescent field of light is diffracted by target molecules bound to the binding sites, thereby creating at least one detection signal
Implementation Method 3
the dispersion of the detection signal generated by the diffraction of low coherent or non-coherent light is reduced by at least 50%, preferable by at least 80%, more preferable by at least 95% and most preferred by at least 99% by one or more dispersive elements
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a device for the detection of target molecules, comprisinga transparent substrate provided with binding sites on one surface of the substrate, wherein the binding sites are capable of binding at least one target molecule a light sourcemeans for coupling light provided by the light source into the substrate, wherein at least a part of the light generates an evanescent field of light propagating along the surface provided with the binding sites,wherein the evanescent field of light is diffracted by target molecules bound to the binding sites, thereby creating at least one detection signal which is detected by at least one detectorcharacterized in that the light source provides low coherent or non-coherent light and the dispersion of the detection signal generated by the diffraction of low coherent or non-coherent light is reduced by at least 50% by one or more dispersive elements.