Abstract: Reagents and assays for kinase, phosphatase and protease enzyme activity which employ metal ion-phosphate ligand specific binding and fluorescent polymer superquenching are described. The assays provide a general platform for the measurement of kinase, phosphatase and protease enzyme activity using peptide and protein substrates. Reagents and assays based on DNA hybridization and reagents and assays for proteins which employ aptamers, antibodies and other ligands are also described.

Abstract: Compositions including biocidal reagents and articles treated or coated therewith are described. The compositions can be used to make passive biocidal surfaces. Exemplary biocidal reagents include visible light-absorbing polyelectrolytes which act as passive biocides upon exposure to radiation, including relatively weak “background” radiation such as natural light sources (e.g., indirect sunlight) and artificial light sources. Methods of treating or coating surfaces with the compositions are also described.