Abstract: Disclosed are methods for analyzing molecular binding events in which the formation of ligand/antiligand complexes can be directly detected in a mixture without requiring separation of the components of the mixture from each other by measuring bulk properties of the mixture (i.e., properties that have contributions from several or all of the components present in the mixture). Using these techniques, it is possible to screen libraries without labeling either the target antiligand or ligand. The invention also provides a method for determining the strength of ligand/antiligand binding by further analysis of the same signals.

Abstract: A sample container for minimizing evaporation of a contained volume of sample includes a container housing, a repuncturable self-sealing membrane, and a collapsible sample bag. The container housing includes an open end and a hollow interior region. The repuncturable self-sealing membrane configured to self-seal after repeated punctures is engaged in the open end of the container housing and includes an exterior surface exposed to the external environment and an interior surface oriented toward the hollow interior region of the container housing. The collapsible sample bag includes a proximate end that is permanently attached to the interior surface of the repuncturable self-sealing membrane.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting a molecular event in a test sample using a resonant test structure is presented. The method includes providing a resonant test structure having a resonant response associated therewith. Next, a first resonant response of the resonant test structure is obtained when the resonant test structure is electromagnetically coupled to a reference sample, the reference sample having a known composition. A second resonant response is also obtained when the resonant test structure is electromagnetically coupled to the test sample, the test sample having an unknown composition. Subsequently, one or more first electrical parameters, such as the q-factor of the resonator, are derived from the first resonant response. One or more second electrical parameters are similarly derived from the second resonant response. The similarity or difference between the first and second electrical parameters are analyzed to determine the presence or absence of the molecular event in the test sample.

Abstract: The present invention provides a variety of methods of analyzing protein binding events using a system capable of directly detecting protein/ligand complexes based upon the dielectric properties of the complex. The system can be used in a variety of analyses involving protein binding events, such as screening ligand libraries, characterizing protein binding interactions, and identifying ligands. The system can also be utilized in diverse analytical and diagnostic applications.