Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and methods to detect a target analyte in a test sample by forming a fluorescent complex comprising the target analyte and a probe. The fluorescence decay and/or lifetime changes upon complex formation.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided to monitor hybridization of a probe polynucleotide for detection and analysis of a target polynucleotide in a test sample. A single-stranded probe polynucleotide is attached to an identifiable region on a substrate and allowed to hybridize to a complementary target polynucleotide that may be present in a test sample. A fluorophore noncovalently interacts with the double-stranded polynucleotides that may be formed. The fluorescence decay or lifetime of the fluorophore associated with the double-stranded polynucleotide is different from the fluorescence decay or lifetime of the fluorophore when it is associated with a single-stranded polynucleotide. The detection of double-stranded polynucleotides at a particular region is an indication that the target polynucleotide is present in the test sample.