Patterned LSPR Nanoparticle Sensor for Multiplexed Pathogen Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensors face limitations such as single antibody per sensor substrate, poor stability due to nanoparticle aggregation or poor adhesion, low signal due to insufficient or excessive probe molecules, and poor selectivity due to non-specific binding, which hinder effective detection and multiplexing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The development of LSPR sensors with patterned regions of monodisperse, high-density nanoparticles functionalized with multiple probe molecules and passivated surfaces to prevent non-specific binding, enabling multiplexed assays with improved signal-to-noise ratio and real-time detection in a compact format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple probe molecules are attached to nanoparticles to increase detection sensitivity, then signal strength improves, but non-specific binding increases causing poor selectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones on the nanoparticle surface with different properties. Hydrophilic regions are engineered to specifically bind probe molecules while hydrophobic regions prevent non-specific binding. This spatial differentiation of surface properties allows the nanoparticle to simultaneously achieve high probe loading for sensitivity while maintaining selectivity through region-specific interactions.
2Measurement precision
If nanoparticles are deposited densely on substrate to increase signal, then detection sensitivity improves, but nanoparticle aggregation occurs reducing stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nanoparticle population into spatially separated clusters arranged in a periodic pattern on the substrate. Each cluster acts as an independent sensing unit with controlled density. This segmentation prevents inter-cluster aggregation while maintaining intra-cluster signal intensity, resolving the contradiction between high signal and stability by distributing nanoparticles in organized, spaced-apart groups rather than continuous dense deposits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates local quality variations by treating different regions of the substrate with distinct surface properties. Specific zones are functionalized to promote nanoparticle adhesion while adjacent zones maintain properties that prevent aggregation. This spatial differentiation allows dense nanoparticle deposition in sensing regions while maintaining stability through engineered separation zones with different surface characteristics.
3Device complexity
If single antibody per sensor substrate is used to maintain simplicity, then device complexity is low, but multiplexing capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a standardized nanoparticle platform with universal surface chemistry that can be functionalized with different probe molecules. The same nanoparticle structure and substrate architecture serve multiple detection functions by simply changing the antibody coating. This multi-functional design enables a single sensor device to detect multiple analytes simultaneously, achieving multiplexing capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension approach (one antibody per substrate) to a multi-dimensional solution by utilizing spatial arrangement of nanoparticle clusters in two dimensions. Multiple detection zones are organized in a periodic pattern across the substrate surface, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple targets. This dimensional expansion from scalar to spatial organization enables multiplexing while maintaining structural simplicity through regular geometric patterns.
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 allows for rapid, multiplexed assays with enhanced signal-to-noise ratio, enabling real-time detection of various targets, including respiratory pathogens, in a low-cost, disposable format, suitable for point-of-care diagnostics and diverse sample types.
Implementation Method 1
When this oscillation is confined to a nanoparticle of a size less than the wavelength of light corresponding to the resonant energy of the oscillation, it is known as localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), and the optical absorption at this resonant energy is both greatly enhanced and extremely sensitive to the dielectric field surrounding the nanoparticle
Implementation Method 2
When a sensor is exposed to the target analyte, that analyte binds to the probe, changing the dielectric field around the nanoparticle and therefore the nanoparticle's optical spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
The invention(s) cover a sensor and method of fabrication, the sensor including: a substrate; and a distribution of nanoparticles patterned onto the substrate as a set of regions. In variations, the sensor 100 can further include one or more channels in fluid communication with the distribution of nanoparticles. In variations, different nanoparticle regions can be optionally functionalized with different probe molecules in order to provide additional functionality with respect to the assay(s) being performed using the sensor 100. Additionally or alternatively, in variations, unoccupied regions of the substrate 110 and/or nanoparticle surfaces can optionally include passivated surfaces to prevent non-specific binding, without significantly shifting the LSPR wavelength, in order to significantly improve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) provided by the sensor. The sensor can be used for performance of multiplexed assays (e.g., for infectious disease panels) with processing of different types of sample material.