Optical devices for label-free detection

Innovation in technology routinely leads the way for discovery in chemistry and biology. Most notably, x-ray diffraction data was instrumental in the elucidation of the structure of DNA. To explore the inherent complexity present in biological systems, existing technologies are being pushed to their limits. Once again, scientists are looking to engineers to create innovative solutions to enable their exploration and discovery. Many of the new methods currently being developed focus on increasing the sensitivity of the detection technique by inventing new devices as well as increasing the specificity of the device by engineering synthetic targeting moieties and improved attachment methods. This presentation will focus on new optical technologies with an emphasis on bio/chem-detection applications. Specifically, the experimental and theoretical optical properties of several new optical devices, which were designed for the express purpose of biological and chemical detection, will be discussed. Additionally, biomolecule attachment strategies which can improve both the stability and specificity of the sensor's surface functionalization will be presented.