Pattern recognition of shape-encoded hydrogel biosensor arrays

A pattern-recognition and encoding system has been developed for a biochip platform using shaped hydrogel sensors batch produced via photolithography. Each sensor shape is fashioned with a unique pattern of dots that makes it identifiable to a pattern recognition system. By linking the sensor's function to its shape, "random" arrays can be created (i.e., arrays that do not require sensors to be located at specific positions). Random arraying can be quickly and cost-effectively achieved via self-assembly methods. Pattern-recognition software was written to perform automated recognition of micrographs exhibiting fluorescing sensors. As a test of the recognition process, an array of shape-encoded DNA sensors was fabricated using lithography. Fluorescent micrographs were taken of a DNA-sensing experiment, and then processed with the pattern-recognition software. The results show that this process is quite viable with 98% recognition accuracy of the nondefective sensors in both images.