Abstract: The present invention provides a method of detecting an analyte in a sample the method comprising adding a sample suspected of containing the analyte to a membrane comprising a closely packed array of self-assembling amphiphilic molecules, the membrane including a plurality of ion channels selected from the group consisting of peptides capable of forming helices and aggregates thereof, podands cryptands and coronands, a first receptor moiety reactive with the analyte being attached to the ion channel at an end thereof, the first receptor moiety being such that it normally exists in a first state, but when bound to the analyte exists in a second state, said change of state of the first receptor moiety causing a change in the ability of ions to pass through the ion channel, the first receptor moiety being selected from the group consisting of antigens, peptides, antibodies (e.g.

Abstract: Membrane for use in the detection of an analyte having a closely packed array of self-assembling amphiphilic molecules and a plurality of ionophores. First and second ligands are attached to an end of the ionophores adjacent the surface of the membrane. The membrane is such that the binding of the first ligand to its specific binding partner prevents the flow of ions across the membrane via the ionophores. In addition, the binding of the second ligand to its specific binding partner prevents the binding of the first ligand to its specific binding partner.

Abstract: The present invention provides a membrane the conductivity of which is dependent on the presence or absence of an analyte. The membrane comprises a closely packed array of self-assembling amphiphilic molecules and two ionophore components. A receptor molecule reactive with the analyte is provided on one of the ionophore components. The binding of the analyte to the receptor molecule causes a change in the relationship between the ionophore components such that the flow of ion across the membrane is prevented or allowed. The ionophore components are preferably selected from the group consisting of amphotericin B, gramicidin A monomers and combinations thereof, with gramicidin A monomers being particularly preferred. The present invention also provides a membrane including receptors directed against the Fc region of antibodies. These receptors are preferably derived from polyclonal antibodies.

Abstract: The present invention relates to electrode membrane combinations for use in biosensors. The membrane is attached to the electrode by means of a linker molecule in a manner such that a hydrophilic space is provided between the membrane and the electrode. The linker molecule comprises within the same molecule a hydrophobic region which constitutes at least a proportion of the amphiphilic molecules making up the membrane or is attached to or is embedded in the membrane, an attachment region attached to the electrode and a hydrophilic region intermediate said hydrophobic and attachment regions. The hydrophilic region spans the space between the membrane and the electrode.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor comprising at least one lipid membrane, each membrane including at least one gated ion channel. The membranes comprise a closely packed array of self-assembly amphophilic molecules and the gated ion channel has a conductance which is dependent upon an electric field applied across the membrane. The biosensor of the present invention may comprise a plurality of discrete membranes each including at least one gated ion channel. The conductance of each of the membranes is measurable independently of the conductance of the other membranes.