Optical Microchip Sensors for Multiplexed Detection of Biological Pathogens

Sensitivity to biological agents is conferred by functionalising individual sensing regions with different antibodies selected against various targets of interest. Antigen binding to the surface-immobilised antibodies results in localised changes in refractive index, which manifest as increases in wavelength of light reflected from the sensor chip. Real-time detection of multiple bio-hazardous agents including bacterial cells/spores, viruses and toxins has been demonstrated. This multi-analyte capability, coupled with its inherent robustness, portability and ease of use highlights the potential use of SpectroSens technology in applications ranging from bio-hazard detection for security and defence purposes to point-of-care medical diagnostics.