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Precision Multi-Band Terahertz Metamaterial Biosensor with Targeted Spectral Selectivity for Early Detection of MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells

Author name : Nasr Mahmoud Mohamed Rashid
Publication Date : 2025-05-01
Journal Name : IEEE Sensors Journal

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes
of mortality worldwide, with breast cancer being a particularly
prevalent form. Projections estimate nearly 20 million new
cases globally over the next two decades. Early detection is
critical for effective treatment; however, conventional
diagnostic techniques often lack the necessary sensitivity and
specificity, with some methods being invasive and laborintensive. Recent advancements in microwave imaging (MWI)
have shown significant potential as efficient, non-invasive
tools for monitoring various cancer types. MWI operating in
the terahertz (THz) range has emerged as a promising
approach for bio-sensing, offering the precision needed to
differentiate between healthy and cancerous tissues by
analyzing small-scale biological features. Among the methods
for breast cancer detection, the identification and analysis of
MCF-7 breast cancer cells are particularly significant. THz
waves interact uniquely with the intrinsic properties of MCF-7 cells, making THz-based biosensors ideal candidates
for diagnostic tools. However, many existing sensors are limited in key performance areas, including operating
bandwidth and absorption efficiency. This study introduces a novel multi-band metamaterial (MTM)-based biosensor
specifically designed for the detection of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The sensor features a compact geometry
composed of multiple resonators made from 200-nm-thick aluminum (Al) layers on a 50-μm-thick polyethylene
terephthalate (PET) substrate. With dimensions of only 198 × 198 μm², the proposed device is exceptionally compact.
It operates in the 0.5 THz to 1.6 THz frequency range and achieves near-perfect absorption rates (>99%) across
multiple bandwidths. These results are achieved through precise tuning of the sensor's geometry and architectural
optimization, significantly enhancing its sensitivity for cancer detection. Comprehensive validation of the sensor is
performed using full-wave electromagnetic analysis, which includes evaluating electric and magnetic field
distributions, surface currents, and scattering parameters. Extensive benchmarking demonstrates the device’s
superior performance compared to state-of-the-art biosensors, excelling in metrics such as quality-factor, figure of
merit (FOM), and absorption efficiency. Additionally, the proposed sensor has been integrated into an MWI system to
evaluate its practical application. The device successfully discriminated against subtle changes in the refractive index
of biological tissues, confirming its ability to detect MCF-7 cells effectively. These findings highlight the sensor's
suitability as a non-invasive, early-stage diagnostic tool for breast cancer.

Keywords

Terahertz Biosensor; Multi-Band Metamaterial; MCF-7 Breast Cancer Detection; Microwave Imaging (MWI); Non-Invasive Cancer Diagnosis

Publication Link

https://doi.org/10.1109/JSEN.2025.3545789

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