Novel Sensing Algorithm for Linear Read-Out of Bimodal Waveguide Interferometric Biosensors

Biosensors employing photonics integrated circuits, and specifically those that rely on interferometric evanescent wave working principles, have outstanding performances due to the extreme sensitivity exhibited in one-step and direct assay, without the need of amplification. Within the interferometric configurations, the Bimodal Waveguide (BiMW) interferometric sensor stands out due to its demonstrated sensitivity for real-life applications and the simplicity of its design. To overcome the ambiguities that arise from the periodic nature of interferometric read-outs, a new all-optical modulation and the subsequent trigonometry-based algorithm have been proposed and applied to the BiMW biosensor. This new algorithm has been successfully employed for the selective identification and quantification of the external Spike (S) protein of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Our biosensing results from this simple, quick, and user-friendly method demonstrate high sensitivity and specificity and pave the way towards a point-of-care device for general use.

Automated summary

Biosensors employing photonics integrated circuits, specifically interferometric evanescent wave working principles, show excellent performance with high sensitivity and simple design. A new all-optical modulation and trigonometry-based algorithm has been successfully applied to the Bimodal Waveguide (BiMW) biosensor, enabling selective identification and quantification of the Spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2. The results demonstrate high sensitivity and specificity, paving the way for a point-of-care device for general use.