Patents by Inventor Scott E. Fraser

Scott E. Fraser has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8124751
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of fluorescently labeled nucleic acid probes to identify and image analytes in a biological sample. In the preferred embodiments, a probe is provided that comprises a target region able to specifically bind an analyte of interest and an initiator region that is able to initiate polymerization of nucleic acid monomers. After contacting a sample with the probe, labeled monomers are provided that form a tethered polymer. Triggered probes and self-quenching monomers can be used to provide active background suppression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Niles A. Pierce, Robert Dirks, Scott E. Fraser
  • Patent number: 8107081
    Abstract: Micro-cavity gas or vapor sensors and gas or vapor detection methods. Optical energy is introduced into a resonant micro-cavity having a deformable coating such as a polymer. The coating swells or expands when it is exposed to or absorbs a gas or vapor, thereby changing the resonant wavelength of optical energy circulating within the micro-cavity/coating. Expansion or swelling of the coating may be reversible such that it contracts when gas or vapor diffuses from the coating. The coating deformation and/or a change of one or more optical properties of the optical energy circulating within the micro-cavity are used to detect the presence of the gas or vapor or molecules or particulates thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Andrea M. Armani, Tsu-Te J. Su, Richard C. Flagan, Scott E. Fraser
  • Patent number: 8092855
    Abstract: Micro-cavity resonant sensors have outer surfaces that are functionalized using click chemistry, e.g., involving a cycloaddition reaction of an alkyne functional group and an azide functional group. A first polymer linking element binds to an outer surface of the micro-cavity and has an azide functional group, which bonds to an alkyne functional group of a second polymer linking element as a result of a cycloaddition reaction. A functionalization element such as an antibody, antigen or protein for sensing a target molecule is bound to the second linking element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Andrea M. Armani, Akinleye C. Alabi, Mark E. Davis, Richard C. Flagan, Scott E. Fraser
  • Publication number: 20120004562
    Abstract: The methods described herein are methods to ascertain motion contrast within optical coherence tomography data based upon phase variance. The phase variance contrast observes the nanometer scale motion of scatterers associated with Brownian motion and other non-flow motion. The inventive method of calculating motion contrast from the phase variance can differentiate regions of different mobility based on the motion contrast differences, and can use the phase information to characterize mobility properties of the scatterers. In flow regions, the inventive method for acquiring and analyzing motion contrast can identify the regions as well as characterize the motion. Furthermore, the inventive method can determine quantitative flow estimation, the index of refraction variations, and absorption variations within flow regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicants: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Fingler, Scott E. Fraser, Daniel Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20110269649
    Abstract: A biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device (BioNEMS) for sensing single-molecules in solution by measuring the variation in the mechanical displacement of the BioNEMS device during a binding event is provided. The biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device according to the invention generally comprises a nanomechanical mechanical resonator, a detector integral with the mechanical resonator for measuring the mechanical displacement of the resonator, and electronics connected to the detector for communicating the results to a user. A system of biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical devices and a method for utilizing the biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device of the present invention are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Michael L. ROUKES, Scott E. FRASER, Jerry E. SOLOMON, Michael C. CROSS
  • Patent number: 7995814
    Abstract: The methods described herein are methods to ascertain motion contrast within optical coherence tomography data based upon phase variance. The phase variance contrast observes the nanometer scale motion of scatterers associated with Brownian motion and other non-flow motion. The inventive method of calculating motion contrast from the phase variance can differentiate regions of different mobility based on the motion contrast differences, and can use the phase information to characterize mobility properties of the scatterers. In flow regions, the inventive method for acquiring and analyzing motion contrast can identify the regions as well as characterize the motion. Furthermore, the inventive method can determine quantitative flow estimation, the index of refraction variations, and absorption variations within flow regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignees: California Institute of Technology, The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Fingler, Scott E. Fraser, Daniel Schwartz
  • Patent number: 7989198
    Abstract: A biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device (BioNEMS) for sensing single-molecules in solution by measuring the variation in the mechanical displacement of the BioNEMS device during a binding event is provided. The biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device according to the invention generally comprises a nanomechanical mechanical resonator, a detector integral with the mechanical resonator for measuring the mechanical displacement of the resonator, and electronics connected to the detector for communicating the results to a user. A system of biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical devices and a method for utilizing the biofunctionalized nanoelectromechanical device of the present invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Michael L. Roukes, Scott E. Fraser, Jerry E. Solomon, Michael C. Cross
  • Publication number: 20110134521
    Abstract: An apparatus for and method of performing light sheet microscopy (LISH) and light scanning microscopy (RAPS) in a single device are provided. The dual-mode imaging microscope allows for the use of both LISH and RAPS in a single instrument. This dual-mode device will allow researchers to have access to both types of microscopy, allowing access to the widest possible selection of samples. In addition, the device will reduce the high costs and space requirements associated with owning two different microscopes (LISH and RAPS).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Thai V. Truong, John M. Choi, Scott E. Fraser, Willy Supatto, David S. Koos
  • Publication number: 20110122488
    Abstract: An apparatus for and method of performing multi-photon light sheet microscopy (MP-LISH), combining multi-photon excited fluorescence with the orthogonal. illumination of light sheet microscopy are provided. With live imaging of whole Drosophila and zebrafish embryos, the high performance of MP-LISH compared to current state-of-the-art imaging techniques in maintaining good signal and high spatial resolution deep inside biological tissues (two times deeper than one-photon light sheet microscopy), in acquisition speed (more than one order of magnitude faster than conventional two-photon laser scanning microscopy), and in low phototoxicity are demonstrated. The inherent multi-modality of this new imaging technique is also demonstrated second harmonic generation light sheet microscopy to detect collagen in mouse tail tissue. Together, these properties create the potential for a wide range of applications for MP-LISH in 4D imaging of live biological systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Thai V. Truong, John M. Choi, Scott E. Fraser, Willy Supatto, David S. Koos
  • Publication number: 20110104676
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of fluorescently labeled nucleic acid probes to identify and image analytes in a biological sample. In the preferred embodiments, a probe is provided that comprises a target region able to specifically bind an analyte of interest and an initiator region that is able to initiate polymerization of nucleic acid monomers. After contacting a sample with the probe, labeled monomers are provided that form a tethered polymer. Triggered probes and self-quenching monomers can be used to provide active background suppression.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Niles A. Pierce, Robert Dirks, Scott E. Fraser
  • Publication number: 20110033933
    Abstract: A method for forming a cardiovascular structure in culture is provided. The method includes applying mechanical force to a cell population in culture such that a cardiovascular structure is formed. In some embodiments, the mechanical force is produced in culture medium by a pulsatile liquid flow with a retrograde component. The cell population can include stem cells or differentiated cells, or combinations of both. In particular embodiments, a cardiovascular valve is formed. Scaffolds for the support and growth of the cell population, and bioreactors including the scaffolds, are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventors: Morteza Gharib, Derek Rinderknecht, Arian Forouhar, Julien Vermot, Scott E. Fraser
  • Patent number: 7851146
    Abstract: The present invention provides for the selective covalent modification of nucleic acids with redox active moieties such as transition metal complexes. Electron donor and electron acceptor moieties are covalently bound to the ribose-phosphate backbone of a nucleic acid at predetermined positions. The resulting complexes represent a series of new derivatives that are bimolecular templates capable of transferring electrons over very large distances at extremely fast rates. These complexes possess unique structural features which enable the use of an entirely new class of bioconductors and photoactive probes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Thomas J Meade, Jon Faiz Kayyem, Scott E Fraser
  • Publication number: 20100233820
    Abstract: Second harmonic nanoprobes for multipurpose imaging of samples and a method of using such probes to monitor nucleotide sequencing in a Multi-SHG Detection Imaging (MSDI) modality and to monitor external electric field using voltage sensitive second harmonic generating (SHG) nanoprobes are provided. The SHG nanoprobes are comprised of various kinds of nanocrystals that do not possess an inversion symmetry and therefore are capable of generating second harmonic signals that can then be detected by conventional two-photon microscopy for in vivo imaging of biological processes and structures such as cell signaling, neuroimaging, protein conformation probing, DNA conformation probing, gene transcription, virus infection and replication in cells, protein dynamics, tumor imaging and cancer therapy evaluation and diagnosis as well as quantification in optical imaging for a wide-range of biological and non-biological processes and devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Periklis Pantazis, Sotirios Masmanidis, Scott E. Fraser
  • Patent number: 7781217
    Abstract: Resonant sensors and methods of detecting specific molecules with enhanced sensitivity. Optical energy is introduced into a microcavity, such as a silica toroid-shaped microcavity. The microcavity sensor has a functionalized outer surface and a sufficiently high Q value to generate an evanescent optical field with increased intensity. A molecule bound to the functionalized outer surface interacts with the external optical field, thereby heating the microcavity and generating a detectable resonant wavelength shift, which indicates a small number of molecules, even a single molecule, without the use of fluorescent or metal labels. Resonant sensors and methods can also be used to detect specific molecules, even a single molecule, within an environment. One application is detecting very small quantities or a single molecule of heavy water in ordinary water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Andrea M. Armani, Rajan P. Kulkarni, Scott E. Fraser, Kerry J. Vahala
  • Patent number: 7727544
    Abstract: The present invention relates to altering the physical and/or chemical properties of at least part of at least one tissue in the eye. In a specific embodiment, it relates to the treatment and/or prevention of myopia. An activating energy source is utilized to photopolymerize or crosslink molecules in the sclera, thereby increasing the strength of the tissue. The individual is administered a crosslinking reagent or photopolymerizable molecule that becomes associated with the membrane, which is then precisely exposed to an energy source, such as light or ultrasound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: The Regents of the University of California, California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Daniel M. Schwartz, Chang Jun Yu, Robert H. Grubbs, Julia A. Kornfield, Scott E. Fraser, Matthew S. Mattson
  • Patent number: 7727721
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of fluorescently labeled nucleic acid probes to identify and image analytes in a biological sample. In the preferred embodiments, a probe is provided that comprises a target region able to specifically bind an analyte of interest and an initiator region that is able to initiate polymerization of nucleic acid monomers. After contacting a sample with the probe, labeled monomers are provided that form a tethered polymer. Triggered probes and self-quenching monomers can be used to provide active background suppression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Niles A. Pierce, Robert Dirks, Scott E. Fraser
  • Publication number: 20100085573
    Abstract: Resonant sensors and molecule detection methods utilizing split frequency. Optical energy is introduced into a microcavity, such as a toroid-shaped or spherical microcavity. A portion of the optical energy is backscattered and interacts with the introduced optical energy to form first and second modes of optical energy at respective first and second frequencies, also referred to as split frequency or mode doublets. One or more molecules bind to an outer surface of the microcavity and interact with an evanescent field of optical energy resonating within the microcavity. Binding of one or more molecules to the outer surface is detected based at least in part upon a change of the split frequency relative to a baseline split frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Tao Lu, Tsu-Te Judith Su, Kerry J. Vahala, Scott E. Fraser
  • Publication number: 20100069624
    Abstract: The present invention provides for the selective covalent modification of nucleic acids with redox active moieties such as transition metal complexes. Electron donor and electron acceptor moieties are covalently bound to the ribose-phosphate backbone of a nucleic acid at predetermined positions. The resulting complexes represent a series of new derivatives that are bimolecular templates capable of transferring electrons over very large distances at extremely fast rates. These complexes possess unique structural features which enable the use of an entirely new class of bioconductors and photoactive probes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Thomas J. MEADE, Jon Faiz Kayyem, Scott E. Fraser
  • Patent number: 7633295
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance (MR) microscope and a dual-mode optic and MR microscope system are disclosed. The MR microscope is provided with a horizontal stage above which a sample to be analyzed is located, a radiofrequency coil assembly located above the horizontal stage and below the sample, a magnetic field gradient module located under the horizontal stage, and a heat exchange unit thermally coupled to the magnetic field gradient module and located under the magnetic field gradient module. The dual-mode optic and MR microscope system is provided with an MR microscope and an optical microscope, the optical microscope comprising a mirror located above the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Julian Michael Tyszka, Andrey V. Demyanenko, Yun Kee, Scott E. Fraser
  • Publication number: 20090214755
    Abstract: Micro-cavity resonant sensors have outer surfaces that are functionalized using click chemistry, e.g., involving a cycloaddition reaction of an alkyne functional group and an azide functional group. A first polymer linking element binds to an outer surface of the micro-cavity and has an azide functional group, which bonds to an alkyne functional group of a second polymer linking element as a result of a cycloaddition reaction. A functionalization element such as an antibody, antigen or protein for sensing a target molecule is bound to the second linking element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Andrea M. Armani, Akinleye C. Alabi, Mark E. Davis, Richard C. Flagan, Scott E. Fraser