SLAP: design software for optimization of fluorescence analysis systems

Initial results of a comprehensive design software that optimizes parameters for fluorescence analysis of a user-defined fluorophore are presented. SLAP (spectral LED aggregation program) automatically selects configurations of LEDs that, in a fluorescence analysis system, maximize the emission signal (useful output) as a function of the excitation signal (interference), optics, photodetection modality, and sample characteristics. Initial results draw on an extensive database of blue, blue-green, green and purple LEDs characterized across a range of nominal and overdrive operating conditions. Overdrive conditions enable spectral shifts of the LED excitation bands to enhance the overall flexibility of SLAP optimization. Representative results show a 70.1% improvement in collected signal for GFPuv fluorophores when compared to conventional LED-based fluorescence operated under nominal operating conditions.