RAPTOR: a fluoroimmunoassay-based fiber optic sensor for detection of food pathogens

This paper describes a portable, 4-channel fluorescence-based immunoassay system called "RAPTOR", which has been developed by Research International in conjunction with the Naval Research Laboratory. The RAPTOR represents a careful integration of optics, fluidics, electronics, and software into one compact system. This unit can automatically perform a user-defined, multi-step assay while simultaneously recording the signal from fluorescently-conjugated reporter antibodies as they bind to the surface of each of the system's four optical waveguides located in the disposable injection molded coupon. The RAPTOR can be used for high-sensitivity monitoring of biological agents and toxins in the lab or in the field.