Abstract: This disclosure relates to compositions, devices and methods of detecting the presence of molecules and optionally quantifying forces associated with molecular interactions on the surface of cells and other lipids. In certain embodiments, devices disclosed herein can be used to detect forces through cell surface receptors. In other embodiments, the devices can be used to detect the presence or absence of molecules on cells or other particles or detect the changes in cell morphology after ligand receptor binding.

Abstract: A signature of a condition of a live cell is established in an assay that allows distribution of the receptors on the cell surface in response to binding a ligand. The receptors can be optically detected and quantified to provide a value for the condition, Test drugs can be screened for therapeutic potential in the assay: a potentially efficacious drug is identified by an ability to modulate an established signature. The receptor distribution signature can be corroborated with an mRNA expression profile of several genes, indicating, for example, metastasis.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to compositions, devices and methods of detecting the presence of molecules and optionally quantifying forces associated with molecular interactions on the surface of cells and other lipids. In certain embodiments, devices disclosed herein can be used to detect forces through cell surface receptors. In other embodiments, the devices can be used to detect the presence or absence of molecules on cells or other particles or detect the changes in cell morphology after ligand receptor binding.

Abstract: A signature of a condition of a live cell is established in an assay that allows distribution of the receptors on the cell surface in response to binding a ligand. The receptors can be optically detected and quantified to provide a value for the condition, Test drugs can be screened for therapeutic potential in the assay: a potentially efficacious drug is identified by an ability to modulate an established signature. The receptor distribution signature can be corroborated with an mRNA expression profile of several genes, indicating, for example, metastasis.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for electrostatic-based sensing and detection of charges and charged materials displayed on a surface. In a general embodiment, a method for electrostatically sensing charges or charged materials by comparing the electrostatic interaction between a capture surface and a reference surface. Assays to detect binding or interactions between a capture surface and a material to be detected are also described. We also describe a sensitive and label-free electrostatic readout of DNA or RNA hybridization in a microarray format and using a microfluidic device. The electrostatic properties of the hybridized particles are measured using the positions and motions of charged microspheres. This approach enables sensitive, non-destructive electrostatic imaging. Changes in surface charge density as a result of specific molecular interaction can be detected and quantified with great sensitivity, and in the presence of a complex background.