Magnetic Barcode Sensor

About

Technology This platform technology is a novel recognition system for identifying biomolecules in a liquid environment (e.g. blood or serum samples). The system works by detecting two unique magnetic signals. Signal 1 identifies the target biomolecule and Signal 2 identifies the quantity of the target biomolecule. This detection is possible via an integrated magnetoresistive spin valve sensor on the bio-chip. The system can be scaled up to detect multiple target biomolecules, and can be integrated into commercially available microfluidic systems for controlled detection. Advantages This technology allows high-throughput real time parallel analysis of functionalized barcode nanowires.  Analysis can be performed in real time with single moiety sensitivity which means a very cost effective diagnostic assay.  Applications include single cell analysis, protein expression and a range of diagnostic assays for disease detection. This technology can be applied to environmental monitoring of water pollutants and detection of ecotoxins. Additionally, this system can be applied to the food industry where the functionalised nanowires can be used to trace and catalogue food stuff from source to table. Such quality assurance can be provided at minimal cost to the consumer.