Abstract
We propose a new label-free allergen sensing technique using a metallic mesh and a nitrocellulose membrane, which is generally used for fixation of protein. Our sensing method relies on a change in the transmittance of terahertz (THz) radiation passed through the metallic mesh on which a sample was placed. Label-free detection using THz radiation is a new technique in biomedicine that enables us to make easier and faster food allergen inspections. By using this technique, we demonstrated detecting the interaction between a streptavidin - biotin and α-casein- anti α-casein antibody on each membrane. The streptavidin - biotin interaction could be detected with 1.6 - 5.0 ng/mm2 streptavidin. The possibility of detecting the α-casein - anti α-casein antibody interaction was shown with 9.0 ng/mm2 α-casein. These results indicate that our sensing system is sensitive enough to detect allergens in food.
