Near-Infrared Fluorescence-Based Sensing and Monitoring Systems

The present inventive concept leverages the core technology of near IR, closed chain, sulfo-cyanine dyes and ligands to create novel sensing and monitoring systems for various industries, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, food safety, and air quality control.

The original patent focused on compositions for medical imaging, but the core technology has broader applications. The present inventive concept addresses the need for efficient, non-invasive, and accurate sensing and monitoring solutions in various industries, where traditional methods are often limited by cost, complexity, or accuracy.

The inventive concept involves the use of near IR, closed chain, sulfo-cyanine dyes and ligands to create compositions that bind to specific targets in various industries, emitting fluorescence upon near-infrared radiation excitation. The systems comprise a near-infrared radiation source, a sensor or camera, and the composition. The fluorescence signal is detectable by the sensor or camera, allowing for real-time monitoring and detection of targets. For example, in agriculture, the composition can bind to stressed or diseased crops, enabling early detection and targeted intervention. Similarly, in environmental monitoring, the composition can bind to pollutants, enabling tracking and identification of pollution sources.

The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases for the core technology, including sensing and monitoring systems for agriculture, environmental monitoring, food safety, and air quality control. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the original technology to these new industries, enabling innovative solutions for pressing problems.

Alternative embodiments may include different ligand designs, varying near-infrared radiation sources, or modified sensor architectures. Variations could include handheld devices for point-of-use monitoring or large-scale, networked systems for widespread surveillance.

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, food safety, and air quality control. The market size for these industries is substantial, with growing demand for innovative, efficient, and accurate sensing and monitoring solutions. The inventive concept offers a unique value proposition, enabling early detection, targeted intervention, and improved decision-making.