Biosensing technologies realized with optical devices

We promote innovative and easy-to-handle biosensing technologies based on optical device technology and ultra-fast electronic device technology. The composition of biomolecules in our bodies changes greatly day by day, and patients with such conditions as diabetes or infarction diseases need accurate information when deciding on courses of treatment. Furthermore, conventional blood measurements are required to be taken in medical institutions such as a hospital. Thus, we aim to produce human-friendly and home-use biosensors.

One of the most promising technologies is our blood glucose measurement technique that uses photo-acoustic technology (Fig. 1). Vibration is induced in the body's glucose by irradiating the surface of the skin with an intensity-modulated light at specific wavelength and our technique measures glucose-related signal ultrasonically. Because ultrasound does not suffer from scattering in the tissue, this method can measure glucose levels concentration without the need to draw a blood sample.

To realize a minimally invasive measurement approach, we produced a blood coagulation measurement system using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology and capillary force generated from a flow channel (Fig. 2). A patient with brain infarction requires blood coagulation activity measurements to determine the amount of medication needed to prevent a relapse. We propose a rapid blood coagulation method that measures the SPR angle shift fraction at the interface between the reagent solution and the plasma that pass in series through a flow channel driven by capillary force.

Terahertz band locates between millimeter wave and infrared light, which has both feature. That is, terahertz waves have ability to capture an image at high spatial resolution like lights and to travel thorough substances like millimeter waves. Further, various molecular and crystal has specific absorption peak at this band. This unique feature of terahertz waves enable us to detect compunds non-destructive with compact terahertz emitter and receiver.Fig.3 shows miniaturization of CW(Continuous Wave)THz Spectroscopic system using planer lightwave circuit technology and its application on pharmacy. For instance, this portable inspector can provide the pharmacy tablet without opening its package in the plant. Fig.3 also shows co-crystal map in pharmacy tablet. Using homodyne detection scheme, clear image of distribution of co-crystal is obtained in transmittance and phase. This feature is applicable to security check in airport or station, food inspector, imaging of smoke.

The biological data obtained with these biological-sensing devices are known as "personal big data". By analyzing such data in a safe and trusted ICT network, we can predict possible health risks. In the future, these data will provide an early stage alert regarding the risk of, for example, adult diseases that are difficult to notice by oneself in advance, and suggest the optimum treatment to each user anytime and anywhere (Fig. 4).

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