Development of a multiparametric bio- and chemo-sensing device for combined measurements of impedance, heat transfer, and mass-loading signals

The central goal of this project is the development of a universal bio- and chemosensing device that allows combining three complementary, label-free sensing techniques: Impedance spectroscopy is sensitive for the dielectric properties of biological or inorganic target particles, the heat-transfer method (HTM) assesses their thermal transport properties and microgravimetry (QCM) reveals the mass of the targeted particles. Simultaneous measurements of all three parameters together will enable identifying the most suitable detection principle for a given bio- or chemo-analytical application. To demonstrate the feasibility of the concept, the project will first aim at the detection of inorganic nanoparticles (e.g. silver and TiO2) in aqueous solutions with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) acting as receptors on planar sensor chips. Additional targets (such as proteins, cells, DNA) and their corresponding receptors will be identified depending on the progress of the project. Special attention will go to operating the three detection principles without mutual interference and to utilize sensor chips baring a plurality of sensing spots, still avoiding mutual cross-talk effects. To identify the optimal detection principle for the model application of nanoparticles, the dose-response characteristics of the device will be determined for each of the methods, providing detailed information on detection limits, sensitivity and selectivity. Besides of the multiparametric device with planar electrodes, comparative analytical measurements will also be performed using the “hot-wire biosensor” that operates on basis of thermal waves according to the 3-omega principle. The project will be performed in close cooperation with the University of Vienna, where the MIP materials will be synthesized and where a custom-built QCM apparatus is available to which impedance spectroscopy and heat-transfer functionalities will be added.