SpectroSens sensors by Stratophase (Romsey, UK) can detect all classes of biological targets, including proteins, viruses, and bacteria. At the core of the system is an optical silicon chip which, by measuring refractive index, analyzes changes in any liquid on the surface of the chip. It also directly measures the binding of antigens to antibodies attached to the chip's surface. The device can be used for laboratory analysis or in the field.
SpectroSens promises precision better than one part per million, and the ability to detect minute changes in chemical composition of liquids. The robust, self-referenced sensor offers real-time data gathering capability for simultaneous measurement of reaction kinetics for multiple biochemical targets. It also offers the potential to determine the relative size of biological entities, further increasing the specificity for a given assay.
SpectroSens chips are customizable for specific applications. For more information see the Stratophase website.
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original press release from Stratophase
Stratophase exhibiting at Pittcon 2009 - booth 837
UK biochemical measurement and detection experts Stratophase demonstrate optical technology for real-time determination of reaction kinetics at Pittcon
+ Capable of detecting even the most minute changes in the chemical composition of liquids
+ Robust, self-referenced sensor chips suitable for use in any liquid processing application
+ Customizable optical chip detects all classes of biological targets
Pittcon booth 837: UK sensor company Stratophase has launched a new technology based on principles which measure changes in the refractive index (*RI) of liquids. In native form, the sensors monitor the relative chemical compositions of liquids, when functionalized the sensors are capable of detecting all classes of biological targets, including proteins, viruses and bacteria.
At the core of the system is an optical silicon chip which, by measuring refractive index, accurately analyses changes in any liquid on the surface of the chip. It also directly measures the binding of antigens to antibodies attached to the chip surface. The result is a small, versatile and accurate device which can be used for laboratory analysis or in the field for chemical monitoring and bio-detection.
With precision better than one part per million, the Stratophase sensors are capable of detecting even the most minute changes in the chemical composition of liquids. The robust, self-referenced sensor chips are suitable for use in any liquid processing application. The SpectroSens chip's real-time data gathering capability enables simultaneous measurement of reaction kinetics for multiple biochemical targets or multipoint inline measurements for continuous process monitoring.
The ability to make multiwavelength measurements at a single point offers the potential to compositionally 'fingerprint' liquids, further increasing the depth of information available to the user. It also offers the potential to determine the relative size of biological entities, further increasing the specificity for a given assay.
Stratophase has developed the SpectroSens technology based on proven science from telecoms, optics and biotech. The sensor chips are customizable for specific applications and Stratophase is currently working with customers to develop bespoke and cost effective systems to suit industry specific highly specialized requirements. The technology also has applications in counter bioterrorism, industrial processes, pharmaceutical manufacturing and food and drink manufacturing.
Over the last year the technology has secured Stratophase in excess of £2 million in contracts and international private investment. Multiple collaborative projects endorse the optical sensor technology's sound scientific basis and commercial applications.
Posted by Barbara G. Goode, [email protected], for BioOptics World.