M. Brucherseifer

Bio: M. Brucherseifer is an academic researcher from RWTH Aachen University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Terahertz radiation & Polynucleotide. The author has an hindex of 11, co-authored 28 publications receiving 1301 citations.

Integrated THz technology for label-free genetic diagnostics

Abstract: We report on a promising approach for the label-free analysis of DNA molecules using direct probing of the binding state of DNA with electromagnetic waves at THz frequencies. Passive THz resonator devices based on planar waveguides are used as sample carriers and transducers for THz transmission analysis. In comparison to a formerly used free-space detection scheme, this method provides a drastically enhanced sensitivity enabling analysis down to femtomol levels. We examine the potential of our approach on biologically relevant DNA samples and demonstrate the detection of single base mutations on DNA molecules.

Label-free probing of the binding state of DNA by time-domain terahertz sensing

Abstract: We present a promising approach for the label-free characterization of genetic material. Time-resolved terahertz (THz) transmission analysis of polynucleotides demonstrate a strong dependence of the complex refractive index on the binding state (hybridized/denatured) of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules. By monitoring THz transients, one can thus infer the binding state of oligo- and polynucleotides, and hence identify polynucleotides by detecting the binding of unknown polynucleotide DNA sequences to known probe molecules. A broadband experimental demonstration in a free-space configuration, as well as a discussion of the potential application for next generation gene chips is presented.

Integrated planar terahertz resonators for femtomolar sensitivity label-free detection of DNA hybridization.

Abstract: A promising label-free approach for the analysis of genetic material by means of detecting the hybridization of polynucleotides with electromagnetic waves at terahertz (THz) frequencies is presented. Using an integrated waveguide approach, incorporating resonant THz structures as sample carriers and transducers for the analysis of the DNA molecules, we achieve a sensitivity down to femtomolar levels. The approach is demonstrated with time-domain ultrafast techniques based on femtosecond laser pulses for generating and electro-optically detecting broadband THz signals, although the principle can certainly be transferred to other THz technologies.

Label-free THz sensing of genetic sequences: towards 'THz biochips'.

Abstract: THz-wave-based approaches for the label-free characterization of genetic material are described. Time-resolved THz spectroscopic analysis of genetic sequences (polynucleotides) demonstrate a distinct complex refractive index in the THz frequency range as a function of the binding state of the analysed DNA sequences. By monitoring THz signals, one can thus infer the binding state of oligo- and polynucleotides, enabling the label-free determination of the genetic composition of target polynucleotides by sensing their binding to known probe molecules. Here we review integrated THz sensing array developments exhibiting high sensitivity and single-base mutation detection capabilities. Recent achievements using functionalized biosensing arrays of high-Q resonators are illustrated.

Label-free probing of genes by time-domain terahertz sensing.

Abstract: A label-free sensing approach for the label-free characterization of genetic material with terahertz (THz) electromagnetic waves is presented. Time-resolved THz analysis of polynucleotides demonstrates a strong dependence of the complex refractive index of DNA molecules in the THz frequency range on their hybridization state. By monitoring THz signals one can thus infer the binding state (hybridized or denatured) of oligo- and polynucleotides, enabling the label-free determination the genetic composition of unknown DNA sequences. A broadband experimental proof-of-principle in a free-space analytic configuration, as well as a higher-sensitivity approach using integrated THz sensors reaching femtomol detection levels and demonstrating the capability to detect single-base mutations, are presented. The potential application for next generation high-throughput label-free genetic analytic systems is discussed.

Cutting-edge terahertz technology

Abstract: Research into terahertz technology is now receiving increasing attention around the world, and devices exploiting this waveband are set to become increasingly important in a very diverse range of applications. Here, an overview of the status of the technology, its uses and its future prospects are presented.

Materials for terahertz science and technology

Abstract: Terahertz spectroscopy systems use far-infrared radiation to extract molecular spectral information in an otherwise inaccessible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Materials research is an essential component of modern terahertz systems: novel, higher-power terahertz sources rely heavily on new materials such as quantum cascade structures. At the same time, terahertz spectroscopy and imaging provide a powerful tool for the characterization of a broad range of materials, including semiconductors and biomolecules.

Terahertz spectroscopy and imaging – Modern techniques and applications

Abstract: Over the past three decades a new spectroscopic technique with unique possibilities has emerged. Based on coherent and time-resolved detection of the electric field of ultrashort radiation bursts in the far-infrared, this technique has become known as terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS). In this review article the authors describe the technique in its various implementations for static and time-resolved spectroscopy, and illustrate the performance of the technique with recent examples from solid-state physics and physical chemistry as well as aqueous chemistry. Examples from other fields of research, where THz spectroscopic techniques have proven to be useful research tools, and the potential for industrial applications of THz spectroscopic and imaging techniques are discussed.

Terahertz technology in biology and medicine

Abstract: Terahertz irradiation and sensing is being applied for the first time to a wide range of fields outside the traditional niches of space science, molecular line spectroscopy, and plasma diagnostics. This paper surveys some of the terahertz measurements and applications of interest in the biological and medical sciences.

The 2017 terahertz science and technology roadmap

Abstract: Science and technologies based on terahertz frequency electromagnetic radiation (100 GHz–30 THz) have developed rapidly over the last 30 years. For most of the 20th Century, terahertz radiation, then referred to as sub-millimeter wave or far-infrared radiation, was mainly utilized by astronomers and some spectroscopists. Following the development of laser based terahertz time-domain spectroscopy in the 1980s and 1990s the field of THz science and technology expanded rapidly, to the extent that it now touches many areas from fundamental science to 'real world' applications. For example THz radiation is being used to optimize materials for new solar cells, and may also be a key technology for the next generation of airport security scanners. While the field was emerging it was possible to keep track of all new developments, however now the field has grown so much that it is increasingly difficult to follow the diverse range of new discoveries and applications that are appearing. At this point in time, when the field of THz science and technology is moving from an emerging to a more established and interdisciplinary field, it is apt to present a roadmap to help identify the breadth and future directions of the field. The aim of this roadmap is to present a snapshot of the present state of THz science and technology in 2017, and provide an opinion on the challenges and opportunities that the future holds. To be able to achieve this aim, we have invited a group of international experts to write 18 sections that cover most of the key areas of THz science and technology. We hope that The 2017 Roadmap on THz science and technology will prove to be a useful resource by providing a wide ranging introduction to the capabilities of THz radiation for those outside or just entering the field as well as providing perspective and breadth for those who are well established. We also feel that this review should serve as a useful guide for government and funding agencies.