NIST researchers have developed a quantum-enhanced flow cytometer that can self-calibrate and achieve single-molecule sensitivity. The device uses photon-number resolving detectors and quantum optics principles to measure biomarker concentrations absolutely, without requiring prior knowledge of optical losses or background conditions. This allows for unprecedented sensitivity and specificity in biomarker detection and enumeration, potentially revolutionizing medical diagnostics and disease monitoring. The technology could enable absolute quantification of single biomolecules like antibodies, microRNA, and exosomes, and provide a universal calibration standard for intercomparing flow cytometers.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/patents/quantum-flow-cytometer
Keywords: photons, correlation functions, quantum optics, fluorophores, calibration
