Handheld biothreat reader with integrated CMOS disposable

The rapid detection and identification of biological pathogens (biothreat agents, infectious diseases) is of paramount importance for our nation?s defense and well being. The vast majority of biological pathogen analysis utilizes immunological binding affinity to pathogen targets as the means for generating a detection signal. Each method possesses an inherent sensitivity that is limited in part by the signal discrimination capabilities of the method and part by the quality of the binding affinity of the capture and secondary antibodies with the target antigen. Reflectance based strip assays serve as the predominent platform employed in commercial and defense consumable pathogen diagnostics. However, strip assays suffer from a number of limitations including the inability to multiplex diagnostic reagents, a lack of electronic recording of the quantitative value of the strip line, and the uncalibrated interpretation of the results from the human observer. The ability to quantify and interpret more senstive results, particularly for first responders, is becoming critical for rapid determination of the ever-looming threat of bioterroism. To this end, Nanohmics proposes to develop a novel disposable device that will significantly enhance the sensitivity and multiplex capabilities over immunochromatographic strip assays and a corollary handheld reading device that will enable a complete system approach for the performance of field diagnostics by first responder personnel.