Label-free fiber nanograting sensor for real-time in situ early monitoring of cellular apoptosis

The achievement of functional nanomodules for subcellular label-free measurement has long been pursued in order to fully understand cellular functions. Here, a compact nanosensor based on fiber taper and zinc oxide nanogratings is designed applied the early monitoring apoptosis individual living cells. Because its nanoscale dimensions, mechanical flexibility, minimal cytotoxicity cells, sensing module can be loaded cells term situ tracking with high sensitivity. A gradual increase nuclear refractive index during process observed, revealing molecular density decrease cell volume. strategy used our study not only contributes understanding internal environmental variations but also provides new platform nonfluorescent devices investigation events fundamental biochemical engineering.