Abstract: The present invention provides binding assays, referred to here as fluorescence proximity assays or FPA. The inventions detect binding of target molecules in a sample to a molecular probe or probes that specifically bind or hybridize to those molecules. In particular, the molecular probes are immobilized to a bead or particle, such as colloidal gold, the reflects fluorescent energy from a fluorophore. The derivatized beads are contacted to a sample of fluorescently labeled target molecules, and binding of the target is indicated by an increase in the fluorescent signal. Kits are also provided that contain materials and reagents to performing a fluorescence proximity assay.