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ISU researchers have developed a process that relates to microfluidic sensing that uses biomarkers to detect cancerous features in humans.  The invention utilizes surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology described in ISURF 4453 as well as electrochemical sensing to form a dual-modality sensor.  The electrochemical component allows for high selectivity and accuracy while the SPR component allows for dynamic tracking of biomarker binding with the device.

 

Typical methods for detection of cancerous tissue include X-ray mammography, MRI, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry.  However, these methods have drawbacks such as resulting in false positives, high cost, or large sample size requirements, they are not performed unless the patient is part of a high-risk group or is already symptomatic.  As such, a device that is non-invasive, has a high degree of accuracy and reliability, and has small sample size requirements would allow for early diagnosis for the general public.  This invention is a simple and efficient method to pattern a periodic array of nanoposts coated with gold and graphene oxide (GO), which allows for both electrochemical and SPR sensing in the same sample area, thus minimizing sample size.  Additionally, the nanoposts are manufactured using a soft lithography process, which results in high reproducibility and low cost of the device.

This technology is related to ISURF 4453: Plasmonic crystal incorporating graphene oxide gas sensor for detection of volatile organic compounds

• High sensitivity

• Low cost

• Easy to reproduce

• Minute sample size

• High reliability

Early cancer detection

Integrated dual-modality microfluidic sensor for biomarker detection using lithographic plasmonic crystal, Dong, et. al., February 8, 2018