科学家利用量子效应原理造出首个自发光生物传感器

Core Insights - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) scientists have developed a novel biosensor that operates without an external light source, leveraging quantum effects, which addresses a significant barrier in photonic biosensing technology for medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring [1][2] Group 1: Technology Development - The new biosensor utilizes non-elastic electron tunneling, allowing electrons to pass through a thin insulating layer and emit photons, enhancing detection capabilities without the need for complex external optical equipment [1][2] - The sensor's structure consists of a thin aluminum oxide insulating layer and an ultra-thin gold layer, where electrons, under applied voltage, excite collective electronic oscillations known as "plasmons," resulting in photon generation [2] Group 2: Applications and Implications - This breakthrough simplifies the structure of photonic biosensors and opens new possibilities for applications in resource-limited areas or where portable devices are needed, such as home health monitoring, disease screening in remote areas, and rapid identification of environmental pollutants [2] - The quantum physics-based, light-source-free biosensing technology is expected to drive the development of the next generation of miniaturized, high-performance biosensing devices [2]