Fiscal Year:
2001
Title:
LOW-COST, GEIGER-MODE MUAPD ARRAYS FOR CYTOMETRY
Agency:
HHS
Contract:
N/A
Award Amount:
$100,000.00
Abstract:
DESCRIPTION (abstract, from application): Flow cytometers provide invaluable
information for the fields of developmental biology, genetics, hematology,
immunology, oncology, microbiology, and parasitology. Multiparameter analysis
greatly enhances the capability of flow cytometers, and reducing the size,
power, and cost of the laser excitation source improves their commercial
viability. Unfortunately, the use of multiple, photomultiplier tubes (PMT's)
substantially increases the cost. Furthermore, PMTs are not readily compatible
with the emerging microscale technology that is now being applied to flow and
scanning cytometry. Cytometry needs a low-cost array of highly sensitive,
real-time photodetectors that are red-sensitive and compatible with microscale
technology.
Geiger-mode, micro-avalanche photodiode (uAPD) arrays are among the most
sensitive optical detectors available today. In Geiger-mode, they provide
noiseless amplification while counting individual photons. Although photon
counting achieves the best sensitivity for a photodector, it frequently limits
the effective dynamic range of the device. We propose to conduct the research
and development necessary to implement photon counting, Geiger-mode uAPD arrays
for flow cytometry. We will explore designs to extend the dynamic range of
these photon-counting devices. This will result in a low cost, high efficiency
alternative to PMTs, which will be compatible with microscale flow cytometry
systems and other microanalysis systems.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The development of an inexpensive replacement for photon-counting PMTs would have
many applications. High performance, Geiger-mode APDs are already a commercial product,
and inexpensive replacement for a PMT would find widespread commercial appeal. These
uAPD arrays are compatible with the growing microanalysis technology, which includes
microscale flow cytometers, DNA sequencing chips for criminal identification, analysis
systems for detecting and identifying biological agents, "point-of-care" systems, and high-
throughput screening system for the pharmaceutical industry.
Principal Investigator:
Arieh M. Karger
Small Business Information at Submission:
RADIATION MONITORING DEVICES INC
44 HUNT ST WATERTOWN, MA 02172
EIN/Tax ID:
042546395
DUNS:
N/A
Number of Employees:
N/A
Woman-Owned:
No
Minority-Owned:
No
HUBZone-Owned:
No