Array Biosensor for Simultaneous Detection of Multiple Analytes

Abstract

A fluorescence-based immunosensor has been developed for simultaneous analysis of multiple samples. A patterned array of recognition elements immobilized on the surface of a planar waveguide is used to capture analyte present in samples; bound analyte is then quantified by means of fluorescent detector molecules. Upon excitation of the fluorescent label by a small diode laser, a CCD camera detects the pattern of fluorescent antigen:antibody complexes on the sensor surface. Image analysis software correlates the position of fluorescent signals with the identity of the analyte. This immunosensor was used to detect physiologically relevant concentrations of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), F1 antigen from Yersinia pestis, and Ddimer, a marker of sepsis and thrombotic disorders, in spiked clinical samples. Analysis of blind samples also demonstrated the capability of the sensor to analyze for bacteria, viruses, and proteins in simultaneous assays.