Illumination of optical analytical devices

摘要

Optical analytical devices and their methods of use are provided. The devices are useful in the analysis of highly multiplexed optical reactions in large numbers at high densities, including biochemical reactions, such as nucleic acid sequencing reactions. The devices include optical waveguides for illumination of the optical reactions. The devices further provide for the efficient coupling of optical excitation energy from the waveguides to the optical reactions. Optical signals emitted from the reactions can thus be measured with high sensitivity and discrimination using features such as spectra, amplitude, and time resolution, or combinations thereof. The devices of the invention are well suited for miniaturization and high throughput.

主权项

1. An analytical device comprising:
an optical waveguide comprising an optical core and a cladding; a metallic layer disposed on the surface of the cladding; and a plurality of nanometer-scale apertures disposed in the metallic layer, such that optical energy passing through the optical core of the optical waveguide illuminates the plurality of apertures by an evanescent field that emanates from the waveguide; wherein the optical core has a thickness, a width, and a cross-sectional area, and wherein the cross-sectional area is decreased at locations where the evanescent field illuminates the apertures; and wherein the plurality of apertures do not extend into the optical core of the optical waveguide.