Integrated Optical Sensor for Early Disease Diagnosis Based on Photonic Structures – SENSOPTIC

The aim of the project is to develop a photonic biosensor enabling rapid, selective and label-free detection of biomarkers under point-of-care (POCT) conditions. The developed solution will combine photonic structures, such as Mach-Zehnder interferometers and photonic crystals, with thin-film SiOx waveguides and an appropriately functionalized surface. Within the project, the transducer will be adapted for the detection of steroid hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. In the longer term, the developed platform will also be capable of being adapted for the detection of other bioanalytes, such as proteins, peptides, exosomes, bacteria or viruses.

The project addresses the need for the development of rapid and easily accessible diagnostic methods. Currently used methods often require access to specialized laboratories, sample transportation and a relatively long waiting time for the result. The biosensor being developed is intended to enable obtaining a result within several minutes, without the need to transport the sample to a laboratory. This may shorten the diagnostic pathway and increase the accessibility of testing, particularly outside large centers.

The work in the project includes four interrelated areas. The first is the design and fabrication of photonic structures based on SiOx layers. The next concerns the development of methods for the chemical and biological functionalization of their surfaces. Subsequently, a photonic transducer for sensor applications will be developed, including its integration with flow microstructures. The final stage will be the validation of the biosensor’s operation using selected biomarkers.

The project is interdisciplinary in nature and combines photonics, materials engineering, bioengineering and medical sciences. The work will be carried out using the micro- and nanofabrication infrastructure of Łukasiewicz – PORT. The clinical partner will provide support in the selection of biomarkers, interpretation of the results and adaptation of the technology being developed to the needs of medical practice.

The outcome of the project will be a demonstrator of a photonic biosensor transducer at TRL 4 level. Its implementation will make it possible to confirm the feasibility of the technology and will provide a basis for further application-oriented work. The developed material and technological platform is intended to be universal and scalable, which will enable further development of the solution towards applications in molecular diagnostics and commercialization.