Multiplex microdisk biosensor based on simultaneous intensity and phase detection

Abstract

Future healthcare and precision medicine require multiplex and reliable biosensors. Here we present a compact photonic crystal based microdisk biosensor that is designed for simultaneous intensity and phase measurements of multiple biomarkers in parallel. The combination of two different measurement approaches has a range of advantages. Phase detection has higher signal to noise ratios, while intensity measurement helps to align the sensor to high phase sensitivities and increase the reliability. The performance of the microdisk biosensor system is examined by simulations and measurements. For proof of concept, parallel intensity and phase shifts are measured upon binding of human-alpha-thrombin and streptavidin.