Nanostructured diatom frustule immunosensors

A major challenge for immunocomplex based biosensors is labelfree detection [1] as Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) or other chemical labeling techniques are typically required for optical signal generation. Current label-free platforms for immuno-complex based sensing rely on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), piezoelectric, electrochemical, or impedance measurements, all of which require specialized instrument packages. Furthermore, many label-free detection methods suffer from low sensitivity. Recently, our research has made exciting new advances in the development of nanostructured biogenic materials to serve as a platform for sensitive and selective detection of immunocomplex formation based on stand-off, label-free optical reporting. The transducer element relies on the hierarchical structure of diatom biosilica, its ease of functionalization, and its optical properties.