Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for small molecule analyte detection using digital signals, key encryption, and communications protocols. The methods provide detection of a large numbers of proteins, peptides, RNA molecules, and DNA molecules in a single optical or electrical detection assay within a large dynamic range.

Abstract: Electrical detection methods are used to identify and further characterize single-molecule target analytes such as proteins and nucleic acids. A composition including a probe region and a tail region is contacted with a target analyte. The probe region specifically binds to the target analyte. The tail region is coupled to the probe region, and includes a nucleic acid template for polynucleotide synthesis. When conditions are such that polynucleotide synthesis occurs along the tail region, one hydrogen ion is released for every nucleotide that is incorporated into the tail region. A transistor such as an ISFET detects and measures changes in ion concentration, and these measurements can be used to identify the tail region and thus characterize the corresponding target analyte.