Abstract: A device reader having a multiplex illuminator, the illuminator, and methods for reading deflection of a large number of microcantilevers are provided. The illuminator includes a micro-optical subassembly for illuminating cantilevers (illuminator) that uses a plurality of VCSELs for generating an array of electromagnetic beams, and focuses the beams on the cantilevers. Deflection of the cantilevers causes a change in angle of the beams reflected from the cantilevers, which is recorded by a plurality of position sensitive devices.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for detecting an enzyme, or or for detecting a substrate of an enzyme or for detecting an enzyme effector such as an inhibitor, by measuring a change in deflection of a microcantilever having a substrate or an enzyme, respectively, attached to a surface of the microcantilever.

Abstract: A method for discovering proteins and protein geometries, and a method for conducting whole proteome assays on a single test surface are disclosed. A test surface is provided featuring a surface containing a random distribution of randomly shaped features of a size from 10−10 meters to 10−8 meters in width, height, depth, and spacing. A sample containing proteins is provided to interact with the test surface long enough for protein molecules to locate and adsorb to complementary sites on the test surface. Unadsorbed proteins are washed away. Protein adsorption sites are then discovered using a means such as an atomic force microscope (AFM) to identify locations where proteins are adsorbed to the surface. The topology of the protein adsorption sites is precisely measured using an AFM. Protein surface topology is deduced by determining the complementary surface to the protein adsorption sites.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for detecting an enzyme by measuring a change in defection of a microcantilever having a substrate for the enzyme.

Abstract: An array of electrodes at the atomic or nano scale (nanoelectrodes) is built on a chip. The spatial distribution, height, width and electrochemical composition of the nanoelectrodes is varied, such that protein-specific electronic receptors are built directly on the chip with the nanoelectrodes without the use of any specific binding agents or molecules. Because of their size, a very large number of different receptors can be built as arrays on a single chip. The chip can be used to detect, characterize and quantify single molecules in solution such as individual proteins, complex protein mixtures, DNA or other molecules.

Abstract: An array of electrodes at the atomic or nano scale (nanoelectrodes) is built on a chip. The spatial distribution, height, width and electrochemical composition of the nanoelectrodes is varied, such that protein-specific electronic receptors are built directly on the chip with the nanoelectrodes without the use of any specific binding agents or molecules. Because of their size, a very large number of different receptors can be built as arrays on a single chip. The chip can be used to detect, characterize and quantify single molecules in solution such as individual proteins, complex protein mixtures, DNA or other molecules.