Abstract: A magnetic material attracting/releasing control method makes use of a pipette device sucking a liquid from or discharging a liquid into a container. A magnet body or bodies are provided in a liquid suction line of the pipette device, and any magnetic material contained in liquid sucked into the liquid suction line by magnetic force are deposited on the internal surface of the line. The magnetic material is released and discharged together with liquid from the liquid suction line to a state where the effect of the magnetic force generated by the magnet body is cut off.

Abstract: A specific binding assay process which is useful for quick qualitative or quantitative measurement and which can be used for various purposes, and a specific binding assay device suitable for the practice of the process, in which a substance to be assayed in a liquid test sample is determined qualitatively or quantitatively by developing the substance in a liquid test sample in a matrix, which comprises the steps of, for example: allowing the substance to be assayed to reach with a specific binding substance which has specific affinity for the substance to be assayed; allowing a signal substance generator (a substance which competes with the substance to be assayed for the specific binding substance and which generates a signal) to change its distribution in the matrix in response to the reaction of the above step, and; detecting the resulting distributional changes at a detection means as changes of signals which are rate-limited by the mass transfer of a signal substance generated from the signal substa

Abstract: The invention relates to multiplex ligase chain reaction (LCR). Two or more putative target sequences are selected. For each one, a set of four probes is used simultaneously to amplify the putative sequence if it is present in the sample. Preferably, all the amplicons are labeled with a common label/hapten and, for each different target, with a unique label/hapten. The invention also relates to an immunochromatographic strip device and method employing a diagonal array of capture spots.

Abstract: Methods and compounds are provided for detecting target molecules in a sample using specific binding assays. In particular, methods are provided for detecting a nucleic acid target in a sample. In one embodiment, the method comprises hybridizing a nucleic acid target, comprising a target nucleic acid sequence, to a nucleic acid probe, comprising a probe nucleic acid sequence, wherein the target comprises a binding ligand. The hydridized target is contacted with a receptor comprising multiple sites capable of binding the binding ligand to complex the receptor to the binding ligand, and the receptor is contacted with an amplification reagent, comprising a plurality of the binding ligands, to complex the amplification reagent to the receptor. The presence of the complexed amplification reagent then is detected, for example, by detecting the presence of a detectable label, such as a fluorescent label, for example, on the receptor or the amplification reagent.

Abstract: This invention is thus related to a biospecific multiparameter assay employing single molecule detection. In particular, this invention is related to a new method for determination of several different biomolecules simultaneously in the same reaction solution. The method uses a fluorescent label for labelling biospecific primary probes and a combination of other labels, bound to secondary probes. Complexes are formed comprising primary probes, analyte molecules and secondary probes in the biospecific reaction. These single molecule complexes are counted selectively while discriminating the signals from other fluorescent molecules using confocal fluorometry or two-photon excitation fluorometry including an auto- and cross-correlator for the signals obtained from said fluorescent labels.

Abstract: The invention concerns a solid-phase determination method and equipment and an adapter for use in these. In the method a sample is allowed to react with a separating reagent bound to the outer surface of a separate solid phase body, whereafter the body is removed from the vessel and is taken to a measurement vessel, if required through one or several intermediate step vessels. At least one vessel contains a medium needed in a determination step to be performed therein when the phase body is brought into this vessel. The invention is especially suitable for use in automatic immunodetermination systems.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for the detection of an analyte in a sample liquid by luminescence measurement according to the principle of a ligand-receptor assay, e.g. an immunoassay or a hybridization assay or a combination thereof, wherein a sample liquid is incubated with at least one receptor which carries a luminescent label and the presence or/and the amount of the analyte to be detected is determined in the sample liquid by measuring the luminescence in a measuring medium containing dispersed components.

Abstract: An element and method for easily performing liquid assays are disclosed. The element uses capillary action to draw a predetermined volume of a liquid sample into a reaction chamber charged with reagent, where reaction between the liquid sample and the reagent is monitored.

Abstract: A device comprises a solid support and multiple immobilized agents for protein detection is described. The immobilized agents are mainly proteins, such as antibodies and recombinant proteins. The immobilized agents can be synthesized peptides or other small chemicals. Agents are individually deposited in a predetermined order, so that each of the agents can be identified by the specific position it occupies on the support. The immobilized agents on the solid support retain their protein binding capability and specificity. Methods employing the device are extremely powerful in screening protein expression patterns, protein posttranslational modifications and protein—protein interactions.

Abstract: An aquatic autosampler device for frequent collection of discrete samples of microorganisms at various locations and depths. The aquatic autosampler device moves a filter disk within a filter housing from a filter carousel into a filter housing holder. The filter housing holder, slidably mounted on a linear shuttle, moves the filter housing into a process position, where a syringe draws fluid in through a valve manifold and through the filter disk to collect samples on the filter disk. Reagents may then be passed over the filter disk to enable image-based identification and quantification of the cells on the filter disk. An imaging system on the autosampler may capture a fluorescent image of the microorganisms on the filter disk and store the image in a control computer. The filter housing may then be returned to the filter carousel for storage and further lab processing.

Abstract: The invention addresses a device for separating magnetic microparticles in a liquid with the aid of a magnetic field. During the separation procedure, the liquid containing the microparticles is located in the tip of the pipette. Moreover, the invention also addresses a method for separating microparticles, and a method for washing microparticles.

Abstract: Electrochemiluminescent assay methods for determining an analyte of interest, which methods include forming one or more compositions which include, in the aggregate, (a) a sample to be tested for the analyte of interest, (b) a component capable of specifically binding with the analyte, (c) a label reagent which, when oxidized, is capable of electrochemiluminescence, (d) an amine which, when oxidized, forms a reducing agent, and (e) an electrolyte solution; subjecting such a composition containing the sample to conditions sufficient for specific binding to occur between the analyte of interest, if present, and one or more of the other components in the composition; thereafter, a composition containing the label reagent and amine, and reflecting the outcome of applying the aforementioned binding conditions, is exposed to conditions, such that both the label reagent and the amine are oxidized, the amine forms a reducing agent which interacts with the label reagent, electrochemiluminescence occurs, and the lumine

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a combined SAW sensor and a SPR sensor for evaluating an analyte, as well as a novel method for evaluating an analyte by utilizing a surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor to determine the mass of the analyte and utilizing a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor to determine the permittivity of the analyte. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided for evaluating an analyte. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a piezoelectric substrate, a SAW sensor disposed on the substrate, and a SPR sensor disposed on the substrate in close proximity to the SAW sensor. In another embodiment, the apparatus more broadly includes a SAW sensor and a SPR sensor coupled to the surface acoustic wave sensor. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus the SAW sensor includes two interdigital transducers and a chemically sensitive film interposed between the two interdigital transducers.

Abstract: Methods of capturing and labeling a species, include attracting magnetically attractable particles to a solid support by magnetic forces, which particles have an affinity for the species, contacting the particles on the support with a sample containing the species to capture the species onto the particles on the support, and binding the species captured on the particles directly or indirectly to a detectable label before and/or whilst the species is captured on the particles on the support. The label may be bound to the captured species via an immunological binding partner which binds selectively to the species and may be a fluorescent label, luminescent label, enzyme label, dye label, phosphorescent label, metal-chelating label, radio label, spin label, heavy metal label, nucleic acid or nucleic acid analog hybridization label, avid or avid-like label suitably bound to or incorporated in particles which also bear a binding agent such as an antibody causing the particles to bind to the captured species.

Abstract: A method for combining magnetic and centrifugal extraction techniques in a manner that improves wash efficiency and reduces the relative disadvantages of stand alone magnetic or centrifugal systems is provided. Centrifugation occurs about the rotational axis of a generally circular container with generally vertical sides featuring an inward protruding physical feature designed to retain material that exceeds the density of supernatent liquid and that is bound to magnetic particles during the centrifugation. During centrifugation, an external magnetic field is applied about the rotational axis of the container such that magnetic lines of force penetrate the container in any desired location. The magnetic and centrifugal forces may be independently modulated or modulated in relative unison to suit the hydrodynamic characteristics of a given complex.

Abstract: A process for magnetic immunoseparation of cells, in particular bacteria, fetal cells, stock cells of bone marrow and circulating cancerous cells, of the type consisting in affixing the target cells on paramagnetic balls and in causing a magnetic field to act on a sample containing the affixed cells, the free cells and the surplus paramagnetic balls, in order to isolate the paramagnetic balls, in that the sample is caused to circulate in a tube the section of which is much less than the length over which the magnetic field is applied.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for enabling resuspension wash and magnetic localization of sample components bound to particles with magnetic properties in reaction vessels during separation and wash for enhanced chemiluminescent signal generation in biomedical assays. The assays involve moving reaction vessels past magnets that partially localize the particles prior to passing a reduced strength magnet where washing occurs, with or without resuspension, after separating out the unbound particles and liquid. The band of particles is subsequently resuspended in acid for chemiluminescent purposes. A variety of magnet configurations are employed to realize the reduced strength magnet. Reduced strength magnets adjacent the full width magnets prevent the band of magnetic particles from becoming split. The localized particles enable more efficient resuspension by reagent.

Abstract: The present invention provides an analytical test device for conducting assays of biological fluids. Methods for carrying out the assays with the disclosed analytical test device are also provided.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for performing a lateral flow assay. The method includes depositing a sample on a test strip at an application region, detecting a first detection signal arising from the test strip in the first detection zone, and generating a baseline for the first measurement zone by interpolating between values of the detection signal outside of the first measurement zone and inside of the first detection zone. The method may include locating a beginning boundary and an ending boundary for the first measurement zone on the test strip. Additional detection zones having measurement zones may also be incorporated with the embodiment.

Abstract: A magnetic material attracting/releasing control method makes use of a pipette device sucking a liquid from or discharging a liquid into a container. A magnet body or bodies are provided in a liquid suction line of the pipette device, and any magnetic material contained in liquid sucked into the liquid suction line by magnetic force are deposited on the internal surface of the line. The magnetic material is released and discharged together with liquid from the liquid suction line to a state where the effect of the magnetic force generated by the magnet body is cut off.

Abstract: A biosensor apparatus for detecting a binding event between a ligand and receptor. The apparatus includes an electrode substrate coated with a high-dielectric hydrocarbon-chain monolayer, and having ligands attached to the exposed monolayer surface. Binding of a receptor to the monolayer-bound ligand, and the resultant perturbation of the monolayer structure, causes ion-mediated electron flow across the monolayer. In one embodiment, the monolayers have a coil-coil heterodimer embedded therein, one subunit of which is attached to the substrate, and the second of which carries the ligand at the monolayer surface.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of analyzing the presence or absence of a target DNA sequence, the level and sequence characteristics thereof at a high sensitivity, and a device therefor, wherein the overall process from pretreatment to the recovery of DNA information and the analysis thereof can be completed in a speedy fashion by the simple device structure and procedures.Therefore, by preparing a single-stranded DNA fragment of a target DNA region, detecting the change in the absorbance of the single-stranded DNA sample while changing the denaturing condition of the conformation of the single-stranded DNA fragment by a denaturing condition regulatory means, and analyzing the curve of the change in the absorbance over the modification in the denaturing condition, the sequence information of the single-stranded DNA, namely the target DNA, can be generated in a rapid and simple manner.

Abstract: The invention relates to multiplex ligase chain reaction (LCR). Two or more putative target sequences are selected. For each one, a set of four probes is used simultaneously to amplify the putative sequence if it is present in the sample. Preferably, all the amplicons are labeled with a common label/hapten and, for each different target, with a unique label/hapten. The invention also relates to an immunochromatographic strip device and method employing a diagonal array of capture spots.

Abstract: A magnetic material attracting/releasing control method makes use of a pipette device sucking a liquid from or discharging a liquid into a container. A magnet body or bodies are provided in a liquid suction line of the pipette device, and any magnetic material contained in liquid sucked into the liquid suction line by magnetic force are deposited on the internal surface of the line. The magnetic material is released and discharged together with liquid from the liquid suction line to a state where the effect of the magnetic force generated by the magnet body is cut off.

Abstract: A high-throughput light detection instrument and method are described. Confocal optics structure enables exclusive light detection from a sensed volume in a composition.

Abstract: A molecular sensing apparatus comprises a first electrode (10), a second electrode (12), a first molecule (20), a second molecule (22), and a third molecule (34). The first molecule (20) has a first chain of nucleic bases (30) and a first group (24). The first group (24) is bound to the first electrode (10). The second molecule (22) has a second chain of nucleic bases (32) and a second group (26). The second group (26) is bound to the second electrode (12). The third molecule (34) is bound to the first molecule (20) and the second molecule (22). A method which uses the molecular sensing apparatus is disclosed.

Abstract: Automated assays for detecting and measuring ion channel and cell surface receptor activity and for identifying compounds that modulate or potentiate such activity are provided. Among the assays are fluorescent indicator-based assays that use cells containing effective levels of a fluorescent indicator that is responsive to changes in ion concentration. Activation of the ion channels or receptors is initiated in the automated measurement apparatus by injection into one or more predetermined cell-containing wells of a reagent which is a known or possible activator or inhibitor of the ion channels or receptors of interest. The resulting activity of the ion channels or receptors, which causes changes in ion concentration in the cytoplasm, is determined by measurement of fluorescence intensity changes of the indicator in response to an excitation wavelength.

Abstract: An in vivo method and apparatus for detecting an analyte in an individual. A sensor that includes a fluorescence reagent is placed in communication with the body fluids of the individual suspected of containing the analyte in such a way that once in place said sensor does not exit the skin of the individual. The sensor is configured to retain the fluorescence reagent while allowing analyte to diffuse into and out of said sensor. The sensor is illuminated transdermally, and the fluorescence from the fluorescence reagent associated with the presence of the analyte is measured.

Abstract: Novel compounds are provided which are useful as linking groups in chemical synthesis, preferably in the solid phase synthesis of oligonucleotides and polypeptides. These compounds are generally photolabile and comprise protecting groups which can be removed by photolysis to unmask a reactive group. The protecting group has the general formula Ar--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--C(O)-- wherein:Ar is an optionally substituted fused polycyclic aryl or heteroaromatic group or a vinylogous derivative thereof;R.sub.1 and R2 are independently H, optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl, optionally substituted aryl or optionally substituted heteroaromatic, or a vinylogous derivative of the foregoing; andX is a leaving group, a chemical fragment linked to Ar--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--C(O)-- via a heteroatom, or a solid support; provided that when Ar is 1-pyrenyl and R.sub.1 =R.sub.2 =H, X is not linked to Ar--C(R.sub.1)(R.sub.2)--O--C(O)-- via a nitrogen atom.

Abstract: Improvements in the existing procedures and materials for conduct of high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) are disclosed. The use of plastic coated matrices especially small spheres or balls which form superior magnetic gradient-intensifying supports are disclosed, along with improved methods and apparatus to conduct HGMS. The selection of small spheres in combination with the coating provides for uniform matrices of high stability.

Abstract: Subject matter of the invention is a method of binding a biological material to a solid phase by providing a sample liquid containing the biological material in a sample vessel (A) having an inner contour (A17); then a hollow body (C) which has a contour (C12) that matches the inner contour (A17) is introduced into the sample vessel (A) while being closed with respect to the sample vessel by means of a porous matrix (C11); the sample liquid can enter the structural form (C) through the porous matrix (C11). This method is easy to automate and reduces the generation of aerosols.

Abstract: A chromatographic assay device for use with immunoassays allows rapid and convenient assays of analytes of biological interest, and permits extractions to be carried out in situ, avoiding the use of separate extraction vessels. The device has a wide dynamic range and avoids interference from particulates or colored components. In one form, the device comprises: (1) a first opposable component comprising a sample preparation means adapted to receive a sample to be assayed; and (2) a second opposable component comprising a chromatographic medium. The first and second opposable components can be brought into opposition so as to cause the sample preparation means to apply the sample to be tested to the chromatographic medium. Preferably, the analyte is detected with a visually detectable label. Other variations of the device vary the arrangement of components to provide optimal chromatography for a variety of analytes, as well as to permit bidirectional chromatography.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for performing an assay which determines the presence or quantity of an analyte in a fluid sample by detecting binding of the analyte to at least one immobilized analyte capture reagent and washing unbound material from the immobilized analyte capture reagent. The devices and methods an elongated solid phase flow matrix, including capillary channels capable of driving capillary fluid movement, and further including (i) a first region adapted for receipt of the fluid sample, (ii) a second region at which the analyte capture reagent is immobilized, (iii) a third region for application of a wash reagent capable of removing unbound substances from the second region; and (iv) an absorbent reservoir of high volume capacity. The second region is positioned intermediate to the first region and the third region and intermediate to the absorbent reservoir and the third region. The device also includes means to detect analyte bound at the second region.

Abstract: A chromatographic assay device for use with immunoassays allows rapid and convenient assays of analytes of biological interest, and permits extractions to be carried out in situ, avoiding the use of separate extraction vessels. The device has a wide dynamic range and avoids interference from particulates or colored components. In one form, the device comprises: (1) a first opposable component comprising a sample preparation means adapted to receive a sample to be assayed; and (2) a second opposable component comprising a chromatographic medium. The first and second opposable components can be brought into opposition so as to cause the sample preparation means to apply the sample to be tested to the chromatographic medium. Preferably, the analyte is detected with a visually detectable label. Other variations of the device vary the arrangement of components to provide optimal chromatography for a variety of analytes, as well as to permit bi-directional chromatography.

Abstract: A test device, system and method, the device composed of an elongated, toothbrush-shaped, transparent, plastic housing and a lateral-flow test strip for the detection of an analyte, such as a beta-lactam in milk, in the housing, the housing having an expansion cavity to receive expanded, liquid-contacted, absorbing material in the test strip, and to control lateral flow rate and times in the test strip.

Abstract: Methods and test devices for detecting the presence or amount of target ligand in non-competitive sandwich ligand-receptor assay processes. Antibodies which bind to the complex of ligand receptor and target ligand but do not bind significantly to the ligand receptor and which bind the target ligand with substantially less affinity than the complex are taught and their uses described. These assays can be used to eliminate the "hook" effect in non-competitive sandwich assays. Furthermore, the antibodies are selected and assay methods described so that, as a result of the assay process, no detectable response is observed due to the binding of antibody and ligand receptor in the absence of target ligand.

Abstract: An enzyme sandwich immunoassay, device and cassette therefor for determining a target analyte are described. The enzyme sandwich immunoassay cassette (B) comprises a microporous membrane support (m) having coated thereon a conductive metal layer overlaid with a capture antibody layer (e).

Abstract: In a cuvette for performing a diagnostic test on a specimen, a base defines a first chamber for receiving a reagent, and a second chamber for receiving a test specimen. The second chamber is defined by four side surfaces forming a rectangular configuration, and a base surface extending between the side surfaces. The base surface defines a frangible wall which is breakable in order to place the first chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber. A cover is coupled to the base and is moveable between an open position spaced away from the second chamber for permitting introduction of the specimen into the second chamber, and a closed position overlying and enclosing the second chamber. A self-aligning piercing member is provided on the cover and defines a tip engageable with the base surface of the second chamber upon movement of the cover into the closed position to thereby break the frangible wall, and in turn allow the test specimen to mix with the reagent in the second chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is apparatus for detecting the presence of an analyte of interest in a sample, comprising an immobilised binding partner comprising a solid support and a reversibly binding receptor which is capable of binding to the analyte of interest thereby causing a measurable change in a property of the immobilised partner, and detection means for detecting the measurable change and a method for detecting the presence of an analyte of interest.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and kit for carrying out a qualitative or semi-quantitative assay. The invention uses a multi-layer device including an an uppermost cover layer of a water-impermeable material having a hole therein with a diameter of approximately 1-5 mm, an intermediate insoluble porous support layer having a first substance bound thereon in a reaction zone, the hole exposing at least a part of the reaction zone, and a layer of a hydrophilic material in contact with and positioned on the side of the insoluble porous support layer opposite the side with the cover layer. The device permits transverse, but not substantial radial, diffusion of liquid through the reaction zone. Approximately 1-50 .mu.l of a test sample and a second substance are applied to the reaction zone through the hole. A colloidal gold label is attached to the second substance.

Abstract: A method and system for optically assaying a substance in a sample using a sensing system having a diffraction grating sensor. A system and method are described that expose the sensor with a light beam at near normal angles of incidence and quantitatively measure the concentration of targeted substance by determining the angular separation between resulting anomaly angles. The present invention also contemplates a system and method that quantitatively measure the concentration of targeted substance by determining the wavelength separation between resulting anomaly wavelengths. Advantages of the present invention include increased sensitivity and less susceptibility to system drifts due to mechanical motion and thermal changes than conventional diffraction grating sensors.

Abstract: A biosensor apparatus for detecting a binding event between a ligand and receptor. The apparatus includes an electrode substrate coated with a high-dielectric hydrocarbon-chain monolayer, and having ligands attached to the exposed monolayer surface. Binding of a receptor to the monolayer-bound ligand, and the resultant perturbation of the monolayer structure, causes ion-mediated electron flow across the monolayer. In one embodiment, the monolayers have a coil--coil heterodimer embedded therein, one subunit of which is attached to the substrate, and the second of which carries the ligand at the monolayer surface.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for detection of low levels of about 1 ppb of analyte in samples using an enclosed permeable membrane enrichment device and agglutination reaction slide test apparatus.

Abstract: An assay device for detection or determination of an analyte in a sample uses either removably attachable components or hinged panels to provide greater flexibility and reduce manufacturing and storage costs. In one embodiment of the device, the device comprises: (1) a first opposable component including:(a) a first panel; (b) a second panel mounted on the first panel generally parallel to the first panel with space between the first and second panel, the second panel having an opening forming a first receptacle for a sample collection device; and (c) a second receptacle for a test strip formed by the first panel and the second panel; and (2) a second opposable component hingedly attached to the first opposable component. In this device, the first and second opposable components can be brought into operable contact so that fluid is expressed from the sample collection device and applied to the test strip for detection or determination of an analyte by a test performed on the test strip.

Abstract: Assay methods for performing non-competitive ligand-receptor assays, where said assays provide a sensible result when the target ligand identified by the assay is present at a concentration greater than a defined threshold concentration. The threshold concentration can be selected to be the upper limit of a normal range of values for a target ligand in a sample, so that an assay in accordance with the invention provides a sensible result only when the target ligand is present at elevated levels.

Abstract: An apparatus particularly suited for subjecting biological samples to any necessary sample preparation tasks, subjecting the sample to rapid thermal cycling, and then subjecting the sample to subsequent on-line analysis using one or more of a number of analytical techniques. The apparatus includes a chromatography device including an injection means, a chromatography pump, and a chromatography column. In addition, the apparatus also contains a capillary electrophoresis device consisting of a capillary electrophoresis column with an inlet and outlet end, a means of injection, and means of applying a high voltage to cause the differential migration of species of interest through the capillary column.

Abstract: A stent for the inhibition of restentosis. The stent is coated with an antigen which can be bound by a labelled antibody. The antibody is preferably labelled with a radioactive source. After the stent has been placed in the blood vessel of the subject, the antibody is injected. The antibody then binds to the antigen on the stent, thereby localizing the radioactive source to the area to be treated, for example for restenosis. Other biomedical devices, such as coil, artificial valve and vascular graft, could also be used in the place of the stent. The biomedical device could be placed in another biological passageway, such as the gastrointestinal tract, an airway or the genitourinary tract.

Abstract: The invention provides a sensor for detecting an analyte comprising a support for a bioreceptor or biomimic and a detection means, wherein the support can retain a bioreceptor or biomimic and the support and the bioreceptor or biomimic and the detection means can be arranged such that when the sensor is placed in a medium containing a substrate, the substrate contacts the bioreceptor or biomimic and reacts to generate a response which is detectable by the detection means and which is relatable to the concentration of the analyte, and the support comprises a non-volatile organic liquid.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for evanescent light fluoroimmunoassays are disclosed. The apparatus employs a planar waveguide with an integral semi-cylindrical lens, and has multi-analyte features and calibration features, along with improved evanescent field intensity. A preferred embodiment of the biosensor and assay method have patches of capture molecules each specific for a different analyte disposed adjacent within a single reservoir. The capture molecules are immobilized to the patches on the waveguide surface by site-specific coupling of thiol groups on the capture molecules to photo-affinity crosslinkers which in turn are coupled to the waveguide surface or to a non-specific-binding-resistant coating on the surface. The patches of different antibodies are produced by selectively irradiating a portion of the waveguide surface during the process of coupling the photo-affinity crosslinkers the selective irradiation involving a mask, a laser light source, or the like.