Devices and methods for detection of an analyte based upon light interference

摘要

Instrument configured and arranged to detect the presence or amount of an analyte of interest on the substrate of an optical device. The instrument has a source of linearly polarized, monochromatic light positioned at an angle other than Brewster's angle relative to the substrate; and an analyzer positioned at the same angle relative to the substrate at a location suitable for detecting reflected polarized light from the substrate; wherein the analyzer is configured and arranged to approximately maximize the change in intensity of the light reflected from the substrate that is transmitted through the analyzer when a change in mass occurs at the substrate relative to an unreacted surface.