Abstract: Disclosed herein are diagnostic assays using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-active particles, including liquid-based assays; magnetic capture assays; microparticle-nanoparticle satellite structures for signal amplification in an assay; composite SERS-active particles useful for enhanced detection of targets; and sample tubes and processes for using the same.

Abstract: Nanoparticles comprising surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter molecules of the formula A-Y and methods of their use are disclosed, wherein A is: wherein X1 is CR4 or N; and Y is selected from the group consisting of:

Abstract: Nanoparticles comprising surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter molecules of the formula A-Y and methods of their use are disclosed, wherein A is: wherein X1 is CR4 or N; and Y is selected from the group consisting of:

Abstract: Nanoparticles comprising surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter molecules of the formula A-Y and methods of their use are disclosed, wherein A is selected from the group consisting of: wherein X1 is CR4 or N; and Y is selected from the group consisting of:

Abstract: The current invention relates to sensing elements and devices comprising at least one amphipathic lipid-binding protein or fatty acid binding protein, wherein the binding proteins are associated with a luminescent reporter group. The binding proteins and luminescent reporter groups are encapsulated within a hydrogel matrix that comprises at least one co-monomer, wherein the co-monomer is present at a concentration that decreases or inhibits micelle formation of the amphipathic lipid. Binding of the amphipathic lipid or fatty acid to the appropriate binding protein can produce at least one detectable change in the property of the luminescent reporter group.

Abstract: The current invention relates to sensing elements and devices comprising at least one amphipathic lipid-binding protein or fatty acid binding protein, wherein the binding proteins are associated with a luminescent reporter group. The binding proteins and luminescent reporter groups are encapsulated within a hydrogel matrix that comprises at least one co-monomer, wherein the co-monomer is present at a concentration that decreases or inhibits micelle formation of the amphipathic lipid. Binding of the amphipathic lipid or fatty acid to the appropriate binding protein can produce at least one detectable change in the property of the luminescent reporter group.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are diagnostic assays using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-active particles, including liquid-based assays; magnetic capture assays; microparticle-nanoparticle satellite structures for signal amplification in an assay; composite SERS-active particles useful for enhanced detection of targets; and sample tubes and processes for using the same.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for accurately determining the concentration of a target analyte utilizes reagent pairs having different affinity for the target. The different affinity provides distinct binding profiles that can be analyzed to absolutely determine the analyte concentration. The method provides an assay system having expanded dynamic range to cover a wider range of analyte concentration and can overcome the hook-effect that commonly exists in homogenous assay systems. The method utilizes distinguishable signals that allows for the analysis of multiple binding profiles and multiplex analysis.

Abstract: Nanoparticles comprising surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) reporter molecules of the formula A-Y and methods of their use are disclosed, wherein A is selected from the group consisting of: wherein X1 is CR4 or N; and Y is selected from the group consisting of: