Digital SERS cartridge for ultrasensitive catecholamine
This technology is a highly sensitive detection system for catecholamines — chemicals like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine that are critical biomarkers for conditions ranging from depression to cancer. It works by using a specially engineered nanostructure that traps target molecules in tiny gaps between metal layers, while simultaneously attaching gold or silver nanoparticles that lock onto a different part of the same molecule. This dual-grip approach concentrates laser signal amplification at precise locations, enabling detection at concentrations far below what conventional methods can achieve. The result is a platform capable of identifying trace amounts of these biomarkers from biological samples like urine or blood.
What you could build
A diagnostic assay cartridge or lab instrument module for clinical labs and research hospitals to quantify catecholamine biomarkers from patient samples with high sensitivity — sold to in-vitro diagnostics companies or integrated into benchtop clinical analyzers.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based life sciences companies, clinical diagnostics firms near the Northern Virginia/DC biotech corridor, or defense contractors with warfighter stress-monitoring programs would find relevance here.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Eun-Ah YOU, Zhou WEI, Wonil NAM, Wansun KIM
- Granted
- November 12, 2024
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12140547
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.