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Single-molecule detection system and methods

  • US 9,482,615 B2
  • Filed: 03/11/2011
  • Issued: 11/01/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/15/2010
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A single-molecule detection system, comprising:

  • a movable light coupler;

    a waveguide comprising;

    a core layer,a first cladding layer formed on the core layer, anda second cladding layer formed below the core layer,wherein at least one adapter site for the movable light coupler is formed in the first cladding layer without extending into the core layer and the second cladding layer; and

    a light detector;

    wherein the movable light coupler is able to localize a single-molecule object at the at least one adapter site, positionable adjacent the core layer, within an evanescent field generated by a light wave propagating along the core layer,wherein the movable light coupler is configured to couple the evanescent field when the movable light coupler is positioned within the evanescent field, thereby allowing formation of an induced light field around the surface of the light coupler,wherein the refractive index of the movable light coupler is higher than the refractive index of the first cladding layer, and the refractive index of the core layer is higher than the refractive indices of the first cladding layer and the second cladding layer, andwherein the single-molecule object is not linked to the surface of the waveguide.

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