Abstract: The present invention provides an active assay method for detecting a biological analyte. According to the method, a probe molecule is immobilized on a surface. An analyte is then placed in fluidic connection with the probe molecule on the surface. A force is then applied to the analyte to move it toward the surface to facilitate contact and possibly binding of the analyte to the probe. Optionally, another force can be applied or the force can be reversed, to remove unbound or weakly bound analyte from the surface. Analyte that remains bound to the surface is then detected. The detection can include rolling or sliding beads over an analyte and/or probe on a substrate, and detecting bound beads. The present invention furthermore, provides devices, such as electrophoresis apparatuses and biochip assemblies, for carrying out the methods of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides an active assay method for detecting a biological analyte. According to the method, a probe molecule is immobilized on a surface. An analyte is then placed in fluidic connection with the probe molecule on the surface. A force is then applied to the analyte to move it toward the surface to facilitate contact and possibly binding of the analyte to the probe. Optionally, another force can be applied or the force can be reversed, to remove unbound or weakly bound analyte from the surface. Analyte that remains bound to the surface is then detected. The detection can include rolling or sliding beads over an analyte and/or probe on a substrate, and detecting bound beads. The present invention furthermore, provides devices, such as electrophoresis apparatuses and biochip assemblies, for carrying out the methods of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides an active assay method for detecting a biological analyte. According to the method, a probe molecule is immobilized on a surface. An analyte is then placed in fluidic connection with the probe molecule on the surface. A force is then applied to the analyte to move it toward the surface to facilitate contact and possibly binding of the analyte to the probe. Optionally, another force can be applied or the force can be reversed, to remove unbound or weakly bound analyte from the surface. Analyte that remains bound to the surface is then detected. The detection can include rolling or sliding beads over an analyte and/or probe on a substrate, and detecting bound beads. The present invention furthermore, provides devices, such as electrophoresis apparatuses and biochip assemblies, for carrying out the methods of the invention.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring ligand binding to DNA or protein uses changes in the mechanical properties of strips of the DNA or protein to detect the formation of ligand complexes. Samples strips are prepared by pouring protein solution onto a glass surface, drying the solution, and causing the protein to be cross-linked; the cross-linked film is scraped off, cut into strips, and mounted in the stress/strain measuring apparatus, which includes force and strain transducers. The sample is held by arms and can be immersed into solutions. The arms are attached to transducers. The apparatus includes a sample holder. The sample films may include end reinforcements and may be pinned or glued to the arms.