Abstract: A nucleic acid hybridization detection assay is carried out at an electrode. A solid electrode, such as an indium tin oxide electrode, is modified by capture probes comprising single-stranded oligonucleotides immobilized to the surface of the electrode. In some embodiments using sandwich assay methodology, the capture probes hybridize complementary target nucleic acid sequences, which in turn are bound to detection probes comprising nanoparticle-oligonucleotide conjugates comprising target-complementary oligonucleotides. In some embodiments, detection probes comprise nanoparticles attached to molecules comprising one partner of a ligand-binding pair (e.g., streptavidin), while target sequences comprise the other partner of the ligand-binding pair (e.g., biotin).

Abstract: A hierarchical assembly methodology can interconnect individual two- and/or three-terminal molecules with other nanoelements (nanoparticles, nanowires, etc.) to form solution-based suspensions of nanoscale assemblies. The nanoassemblies can then undergo chemical-selective alignment and attachment to nanopatterned silicon and/or other surfaces for interconnection and/or measurement.

Abstract: The present invention discloses gradients and methods of forming gradients. The gradients can form a component of a molecular machine, such as those disclosed herein. The molecular machines of the present invention can perform a range of tasks including nanoparticle heterostructure assembly, derivatization of a nanoparticle and synthesis of biomolecules, to name just a few applications.

Abstract: A nucleic acid hybridization detection assay is carried out at a solid electrode. A solid electrode, such as an indium tin oxide electrode, is modified by single-stranded capture oligonucleotides that are immobilized to the surface of the electrode. Using sandwich assay methodology, complementary target nucleic acid sequences hybridize to the capture oligonucleotides, which are in turn hybridized to a detection probe comprising a nanoparticle. When the assay is carried out in the presence of a redox mediator in solution, the nanoparticle catalyzes the transfer of electrons to the electrode, thus generating a detectable electrical current.

Abstract: A hierarchical assembly methodology can interconnect individual two- and/or three-terminal molecules with other nanoelements (nanoparticles, nanowires, etc.) to form solution-based suspensions of nanoscale assemblies. The nanoassemblies can then undergo chemical-selective alignment and attachment to nanopatterned silicon and/or other surfaces for interconnection and/or measurement.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for the synthesis and/or discovery of inorganic compounds, including organometallic compounds. Also provided are functional nucleic acids for synthesis of inorganic compounds and methods of identifying the same. As another aspect, the invention provides compounds made according to the inventive methods, including palladium plates and cobalt-iron oxides spheres, cubes, fibers and nanotubes.

Abstract: A molecule is wired into an electronic circuit by attaching a metal nanoparticle to the molecule and then electrically connecting a metal nanoparticle to the electric circuit. The metal nanoparticle interconnects can bridge the gap between small molecules and conventional electric circuits. An optical second harmonic also may be generated by impinging optical radiation having a first frequency on an array of molecularly bridged metal nanoparticles, to generate optical energy at a second frequency that is twice the first frequency. Red to blue light conversion thereby may be provided.

Abstract: A nucleic acid hybridization detection assay is carried out at a solid surface. Capture probes comprising single-stranded oligonucleotides are immobilized to a solid substrate surface. In some embodiments using sandwich assay methodology, the capture probes hybridize complementary target nucleic acid sequences, which in turn are bound to detection probes comprising nanoparticle-oligonucleotide conjugates comprising target-complementary oligonucleotides. In some embodiments, detection probes comprise nanoparticles attached to molecules comprising one partner of a ligand-binding pair (e.g., streptavidin), while target sequences comprise the other partner of the ligand-binding pair (e.g., biotin). The solid surface is exposed to light at a wavelength that is absorbed by the nanoparticle, thus eliciting a temperature jump. The heat generated by the nanoparticle excitation is detected by a photothermography method such as infrared thermography.

Abstract: A molecule is wired into an electronic circuit by attaching a metal nanoparticle to the molecule and then electrically connecting a metal nanoparticle to the electric circuit. The metal nanoparticle interconnects can bridge the gap between small molecules and conventional electric circuits. An optical second harmonic also may be generated by impinging optical radiation having a first frequency on an array of molecularly bridged metal nanoparticles, to generate optical energy at a second frequency that is twice the first frequency. Red to blue light conversion thereby may be provided.