A fiber tip label free biological sensing platform for in vivo applications

Abstract

The novel platform presented in this paper is design to answer the unmet challenge of real time label free in-vivo sensing by bringing together a refractive index transducing mechanism based on Whispering Gallery Modes in dye doped microspheres combined with Microstructured Optical Fibers. In addition to providing the provides the remote excitation and collection of the WGM signal, the fibre also allows easily manipulation of the microresonator and the use this sensor in a dip sensing architecture, alleviating the need for a complex microfluidic interface. Here, we demonstrate the ability of this sensing platform to be operated above its lasing threshold, enabling enhanced performance. © 2013 Copyright SPIE.