Biomolecular analysis with microring resonators: applications in multiplexed diagnostics and interaction screening

Microring optical resonators are a promising class of sensor whose value in bioanalytical applications has only begun to be explored. Utilized in the telecommunication industry for signal processing applications, microring resonators have more recently been re-tasked for biosensing because of their scalability, sensitivity, and versatility. Their sensing modality arises from light/matter interactions--light propagating through the microring and the resultant evanescent field extending beyond the structure is sensitive to the refractive index of the local environment, which modulates resonant wavelength of light supported by the cavity. This sensing capability has recently been utilized for the detection of numerous biological targets including proteins, nucleic acids, viruses, and small molecules. Herein we highlight some of the most exciting recent uses of this technology for biosensing applications, with an eye towards future developments in the field.