A hitchhiker’s guide to the genomic galaxy

How can we find meaningful answers to the ultimate questions of life? Silicon photonics may help, revealing never-before-seen insights into the extraordinary data stored within biological systems. Here, we present Silicon photonic sensors that enable early disease onset, help inform optimal treatment, and uncover new biological pathways associated with personal, population, and ecosystem-level health. On the same centimeter-scale sensor, we detect millions of gene fragments, proteins, and molecular toxins.  We apply these sensors for rapid tuberculosis antibiotic susceptibility testing, as well as waste-water-based epidemiology of bacterial pathogens. We also apply these sensors to unravel the mysteries of our immune system and help boost vaccine efficacy. Finally, we describe integration of these sensors with autonomous underwater robots from Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) for real-time monitoring of environmental DNA and harmful algae blooms. Through scalable, data-rich insights that inform actionable outcomes, Silicon photonic sensors just might hold the key to enhancing and extending healthspans of life on our planet.