Abstract: The present invention relates to the amplification of nucleic acids, preferably from mRNA. A primer and promoter are added to a target sequence to be amplified and then the target is amplified in an in vitro transcription reaction and the product of this reaction is used as template for subsequent rounds of amplification. Polyadenylated control transcripts are added to the nucleic acid sample prior to the first step of amplification to monitor the efficiency of the amplification and labeling reactions.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for improving the a&esion of gels to metalcoated substrates. In particular, the present invention provides a method comprising the steps of forming a thiol or disulfide self-assembled monolayer on the metal-coated substrate prior to deposition of the gel structures. The invention further provides devices fabricated according to the methods of the invention, comprising a substrate having a surface, a noble metal layer deposited on the substrate surface, a self-assembled monolayer comprised of bifunctional molecules having a thiol or disulfide end and a polymerizable end formed on the noble metal layer, and a plurality of gel pads a&Bred to the self-assembled monolayer. The devices of the invention are advantageously used for performing assays using optical and/or electrochemical detection methods.

Abstract: A method of bonding bio-molecules to a test site including providing a substrate having a test site defined on a surface thereof, providing a solution containing a plurality of probe molecules and bonding material, directing light from a light source onto the test site so as to cause the bonding material to bond the probe molecules to the test site.