Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of forming shape-retentive aggregates of gel particles in which the aggregates are held together by non-covalent bond physical forces such as, without limitation, hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The method comprises introducing a suspension of gel particles in a polar liquid at a selected concentration, wherein the gel particles have an absolute zeta potential, into a medium in which the absolute zeta potential of the gel particles is decreased, resulting in the gel particles coalescing into the claimed shape-retentive aggregate. This invention also relates to uses of the method of formation of the shape-retentive aggregates of gel particles.

Abstract: Fluorescent biosensor molecules, fluorescent biosensors and systems, as well as methods of making and using these biosensor molecules and systems are described. These biosensor molecules address the problem of obtaining fluorescence emission at wavelengths greater than about 500 nm. Biosensor molecules generally include an (1) an acridine-based fluorophore, (2) a linker moiety and (3) a boronate substrate recognition/binding moiety, which binds polyhydroxylate analytes, such as glucose. These biosensor molecules further include a “switch” element that is drawn from the electronic interactions among these submolecular components. This fluorescent switch is generally “off” in the absence of bound polyhydroxylate analyte and is generally “on” in the presence of bound polyhydroxylate analyte. Thus, the reversible binding of a polyhydroxylate analyte essentially turns the fluorescent switch “on” and “off”.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of forming shape-retentive aggregates of gel particles in which the aggregates are held together by non-covalent bond physical forces such as, without limitation, hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The method comprises introducing a suspension of gel particles in a polar liquid at a selected concentration, wherein the gel particles have an absolute zeta potential, into a medium in which the absolute zeta potential of the gel particles is decreased, resulting in the gel particles coalescing into the claimed shape-retentive aggregate. This invention also relates to uses of the method of formation of the shape-retentive aggregates of gel particles.