Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

SUMMARY OF PROPOSAL FOR PUBLIC RELEASE (Use plain language.) Version française disponible The primary objective of this project is to develop the optical detection component for a compact Lab-on-a-chip (LoaC) biosensor array. This component will include both elements required for the optical detection of neurons - that control brain functions ranging from simple reflexes to learning and memory. The elements are: a special CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor - the technology of choice in semiconductors) image sensor (an array of recording photodiodes with all supporting electronics) and a special emission filter. Currently, brain researchers such as Dr. Syed (co-PI on the application) work with cumbersome systems to ""see"" the neurons, which, labeled with fluorescent probes, emit very low-level light that cannot be easily detected. Conventional fluorescence detection systems are both expensive and complex requiring several optical lenses and filters and usually a cooled Charged Coupled Device (CCD) camera. Here, a novel low-noise CMOS image sensor, which is more sensitive, will be integrated with a new high quality emission filter on top, to form an effective compact system. Both project components are original, and have been filed for separate patents via the University of Calgary's for profit technology transfer company - UTI. The special CMOS image sensor is more sensitive than available sensors, due to a new variable partition amplifier we have designed. It will also enable the view of details under strong light (currently the stimulation of neurons via strong light pulses does not enable viewing the details due to sensor saturation). The emission filter is new, based on Poly-Acrylic Acid (PAA) which is more biocompatible and with an improved response compared to other filters. The integrated system will enable the development of new diagnostic procedures and treatments for neuronal injury and due to high quality, compactness, low power and low cost, opens the door to better (faster, more accurate) assessments for patients and lower expenses in healthcare.