Transforming medical diagnostics with metasurface terahertz biosensing technology: a label-free biosensor for detecting multiple diseases

Abstract

This study presents an innovative metasurface-based terahertz biosensor that enables label-free, non-invasive and cost-effective detection of a wide array of diseases including malaria and eight types of cancers. The sensor uses a triple-resonance response to detect spectral shifts caused by refractive index variations in diseased tissues and offers exceptional disease diagnostic performance. It’s simple yet innovative layered structure composed of Aluminum (Al) and Polyimide eliminates the need for complex fabrication processes and use of expensive or 2 dimensional materials which makes it a highly scalable and affordable solution in the field of advanced disease detection. With sensitivities up to 1.43 THz/RIU, a Figure of Merit of 17.54 RIU⁻¹ and a Quality Factor of 18.33, the biosensor is capable of detecting even the smallest changes in dielectric properties enabling early-stage diagnosis of infectious diseases like malaria and brain cancer. Completely polarization insensitive with wide angular stability of up to 70°, the sensor ensures reliable performance across a wide range of diverse diagnostic environments. This handy platform not only eliminates the reliance on disease-specific devices but also streamlines diagnostics which makes it ideal for resource-constrained healthcare settings. Its ease of fabrication, adaptability and ability to deliver precise, real-time and rapid results positions itself as a game-changer in personalized medicine, point-of-care diagnostics and global health initiatives while setting new standards for disease detection and management.