Integration of fluidic channels and total internal reflection excitation with supercritical angle fluorescence detection

Abstract

In many diagnostic applications, there is a growing demand for small cost effective portable devices that enable fast on-site analysis. For this target, we are developing an integrated approach of a previously reported surface-sensitive measurement system based on total internal reflection excitation and supercritical angle fluorescence detection. The integrated measurement platform includes a polystyrene substrate on which the fluidic channels for sample transport, waveguides for fluorescence excitation and the readout optics are fabricated. In addition, thin layers with dielectric properties differing from those of polystyrene may be needed on the fluidic channels for optimal sample transport or biomolecule immobilisation. Here, special attention is paid to the influence of the dielectric environment near the solid-liquid interface on the fluorescence distribution and to the design of the readout optics. The first version of the designed readout optics of the integrated measurement platform is presented.