Detectors optical, biochemical analysis

Micro flow control devices open new possibilities for the miniaturization of conventional chemical and biochemical analysis systems. The micro total analysis system (pTAS) including microfabricated detectors (e.g. silicon based chemical sensors, optical sensors), micro flow control devices and control/detec-tion circuits is a practical micro electro mechanical system (MEMS). pTAS realize very small necessary sample volume, fast response and the reduction of reagents which is very useful in chemical and medical analysis. Two approaches of monolithic and hybrid integration of these devices have been studied. Monolithic and hybrid types of flow injection analysis (FIA) systems were already demonstrated [4, 5]. The combination of the partly integrated components and discrete components is useful in many cases [6]. To fabricate such systems, bonding and assembling methods play very important roles [7]. 

Normally, the glass-based microchips have good performance because the surface property is similar to the inner surface of conventional capillaries and high optical transparency. The samples are normally loaded by EK injection and detected with UV or LIF detectors positioned at the end of the channel. In recent years, companies such as Agilent, Hitachi, and Shimadzu have developed equipment based on microchip technology for biochemical analysis, and such equipment is now commercially available (16). 

Optical fiber detectors (OFD) are devices that measure electromagnetic radiation transmitted through optical fibers to produce a quantitative signal in response to the chemical or biochemical recognition of a specific analyte. Ideally, an OFD should produce a specific and accurate measurement, continuously and reversibly, of the presence of a particular molecular species in a given sample medium. Additionally, OFD should pro vide maximum sensitivity and minimal interferences fromsuperfluous ions or molecules to obtain low detection limits. Other attractive features include the miniaturization of the fiber s tip to accommodate single-cell analysis and portable instrumentation to allow in situ analysis. 

Major Applications pH Sensors, optical chemical sensors, biochemical sensors, biosensors," fluorescent pH detector system, measuring fluorescence lifetime in cells, determining concentration of a laminar sample stream, fluorescent reporter beads for fluid analysis, measuring ch ical analytes, intracellular pH in human sperms, " multidrug resistance," recording intramitochon-drial pH, fluorescent probes ... 

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