Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensing and its Interplay with Fluidics

In this Feature Article, we discuss the interplay between fluidics and the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensing technique, primarily focusing on its applications in the realm of bio/chemical sensing within fluidic environments. Commencing with a foundational overview of LSPR principles from a sensing perspective, we subsequently showcase the development of a streamlined LSPR chip integrated with microfluidic structures. This integration opens the doors to advanced experiments involving fluid dynamics, greatly expanding the scope of LSPR-based research. Our discussions then turn to the practical implementation of LSPR and microfluidics in real-time biosensing, with a specific emphasis on monitoring DNA polymerase activity. Additionally, we illustrate the direct sensing of biological fluids, exemplified by the analysis of urine, while also shedding light on a unique particle assembly process that occurs on LSPR chips. We not only discuss the significance of LSPR sensing but also explore its potential to investigate a plethora of phenomena at liquid-liquid and solid-liquid interfaces. This is particularly noteworthy, as existing transduction methods and sensors fall short in fully comprehending these interfacial phenomena. Concluding our discussion, we present a futuristic perspective that provides insights into potential opportunities emerging at the intersection of fluidics and LSPR sensing.