Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for the immobilization of cells or virus particles of interest expressing one or more predetermined surface marker(s) on defined spots on a solid support, comprising the steps of providing a biological fluid sample suspected of containing cells or virus particles of interest; labeling the cells or virus particles of interest with antibodies, antibody fragments or antibody mimetics directed against the one or more predetermined surface marker(s) and carrying a first binding agent; and contacting the labeled cells or virus particles of interest with a solid support (biochip), said solid support comprising an array of defined isolated spots of a solid support-bound second binding agent, wherein the first and second binding agents can bind to each other. The present invention further relates to devices for the isolation of cells or virus particles of interest expressing one or more predetermined surface marker(s).

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of molecules includes bringing into contact with at least one optical grating comprised of a first liquid phase, a second liquid phase which cannot be mixed with the first liquid phase. The first liquid phase is arranged on a substrate in a form of periodic structures having a periodicity ranging from about 190 nm to about 10 ?m. The molecules to be detected, which are capable of changing the optical characteristics of the at least one optical grating are added to the first liquid phase or to the second liquid phase either before, during or after the bringing step. The presence of molecules is detected by measuring a changed reflection or transmission of light at the at least one optical grating or a changing spatial course of the diffraction pattern as soon as the first liquid phase makes contact with the second liquid phase and with the molecules to be detected.

Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of molecules includes bringing into contact with at least one optical grating comprised of a first liquid phase, a second liquid phase which cannot be mixed with the first liquid phase. The first liquid phase is arranged on a substrate in a form of periodic structures having a periodicity ranging from about 190 nm to about 10 ?m. The molecules to be detected, which are capable of changing the optical characteristics of the at least one optical grating are added to the first liquid phase or to the second liquid phase either before, during or after the bringing step. The presence of molecules is detected by measuring a changed reflection or transmission of light at the at least one optical grating or a changing spatial course of the diffraction pattern as soon as the first liquid phase makes contact with the second liquid phase and with the molecules to be detected.