SBIR Phase I: A Novel Optical Biosensor for Rapid Clinical Diagnostics

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project will demonstrate the feasibility of direct detection and quantification of p53 antibodies as a model for other macromolecules in biological fluids without using any reporter molecules through the use of bio-sensing elements in a unique, patented holographic interferometer. The present innovation seeks to extend detection capabilities of the currently validated gas phase detection system to biological molecules in liquid media. Application in liquid systems is the next logical step based on the instruments demonstrated sensitivity and speed in detection of airborne chemicals at sub ppm levels. Realization of the proposed innovation will provide the benefits of low cost, fast, point of care detection and quantification of biomarkers in sera and other biological fluids which otherwise require expensive, labor-intensive, multiple step detection techniques.