Handheld Multianalyte Biosensor Platform

The goal of this project is to develop a handheld biosensor for rapid detection of bioanalytes such as proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, toxins, viruses, bacteria and other molecular targets that represent interest for the biodefense area. We propose to build a rugged device, similar to a palm computer, equipped with a disposable sensor cartridge designed for simultaneous detection of multiple target molecules with sensitivity at the level of single molecule detection. Inexpensive sensor cartridge will have an array of printed receptor molecules and set of reagents for a one-step detection process. For many existing technologies, rate of response is slow, which makes them useless for biodefense applications that need results in several minutes or less. In contrast to currently available technologies that require multiple stages of reagent injection and washing, the envisioned biosensor system is based on a one-stage process that allows detection of molecular signatures in a matter of seconds or a few minutes. Complex samples such as whole blood, saliva, suspensions of cells, and contaminated turbid solutions can be analyzed with no or minimum sample preparation stages. This SBIR project builds upon the experience of the investigators at TIRF Technologies in developing total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) biosensor systems. We have built a benchtop, analytical grade, versatile TIRF biosensor instrument, which detects single biomolecules. In the proposed project we will use our previous experience to develop a handheld multianalyte biosensor with exceptionally low probability of false positive and false negative responses. The proposed technology has the potential to revolutionize many areas that are related to life sciences, including the biodefense potential of the Department of Homeland Security. In Phase I we will demonstrate the feasibility of the envisioned handheld biosensor, and in Year 1 of Phase II build its upgradeable prototype. During Phase II we will partner with academic groups to test the biosensor on 20-30 bioanalytes. We have in-house facilities for rapid prototyping and small-volume manufacturing. In Year 2 of Phase II, anticipating large demand for the envisioned handheld biosensor, we plan to partner with manufacturing companies to start large-scale production. The envisioned biosensor can find broad application for biodefense, biomedical, environmental and forensic analyses.