A portable automated multianalyte biosensor

The array biosensor employs an array of capture molecules on a planar optical waveguide to interrogate multiple samples simultaneously for multiple targets. In assay development and demonstration studies published previously, we have quantified this biosensor's capability for rapid identification of a wide variety of targets in complex sample media. This paper describes the miniaturization and automation of the array biosensor for portability and on-site use. The fluidics have been redesigned and constructed with reliability and commercial production of disposable components in mind. To demonstrate the automated operation, simultaneous assays were automatically conducted on samples containing both ovalbumin and staphylococcal enterotoxin B. Results demonstrate the capability of the biosensor for detection and quantification.