Novel Biomolecular NanoPhotonic Devices, Sensors, Photonic Nanocrystals and Biochips: Advances in Medical Diagnostics, Environmental and Defense

Abstract

This experimental study explores the potential of insulin molecules and other proteins, enzymes and dipolar ions, alone, or in conjunction with colloidal gold nanoparticles and other nanoparticles to modulate and enhance the detection process of optical signals by providing unique signal characteristics, such as optical gain, light shaping, and optical control capabilities. The experimental results of this study indicate that insulin molecules can be used to enhance and amplify incoming light photon signals. Further signal amplification and enhancement has been observed by doping insulin molecules with colloidal gold nanoparticles. These observations have significant implications on the development of novel biomolecular photonic materials, optical devices, sensors, nanodevices, therapeutical and imaging systems.