Current Trends in Photonic Biosensors: Advances towards Multiplexed Integration

Abstract

In this review, we present the current trends in photonic biosensors, focusing on devices based on lab-on-a-chip (LOC) systems capable of simultaneously detecting multiple real-life diseases on a single platform. The first section lists the advantages and challenges of building LOC platforms based on integrated optics. Some of the most popular materials for the fabrication of microfluidic cells are also shown. Then, a review of the latest developments in biosensors using the evanescent wave detection principle is provided; this includes interferometric biosensors, ring resonators, and photonic crystals, including a brief description of commercial solutions, if available. Then, a review of the latest advances in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors is presented, including localized-SPRs (LSPRs). A brief comparison between the benefits and required improvements on each kind of biosensor is discussed at the end of each section. Finally, prospects in the field of LOC biosensors based on integrated optics are glimpsed.