Abstract: The present invention generally discloses the use of a nanostructured non-silicon thin film (such as an alumina or aluminum thin film) on a supporting substrate which is subsequently coated with an active layer of a material such as silicon or tungsten. The base, underlying non-silicon material generates enhanced surface area while the active layer assists in incorporating and transferring energy to one or more analytes adsorbed on the active layer when irradiated with a laser during laser desorption of the analyte(s). The present invention provides substrate surfaces that can be produced by relatively straightforward and inexpensive manufacturing processes and which can be used for a variety of applications such as mass spectrometry, hydrophobic or hydrophilic coatings, medical device applications, electronics, catalysis, protection, data storage, optics, and sensors.

Abstract: Methods of positioning and orienting nanostructures, and particularly nanowires, on surfaces for subsequent use or integration. The methods utilize mask based processes alone or in combination with flow based alignment of the nanostructures to provide oriented and positioned nanostructures on surfaces. Also provided are populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, devices that include populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, systems for positioning and/or orienting nanostructures, and related devices, systems and methods.

Abstract: Methods of detecting components of interest, e.g., nucleic acids and sugars, are provided. The methods comprise contacting one or more nanowires comprising a functional group with a sample containing the component or components of interest. In one embodiment, the functional group comprises a hairpin oligonucleotide, e.g., a hairpin that changes conformation upon binding the component of interest, e.g., a nucleic acid. The change in conformation produces a change in charge that is detected. In another embodiment, the functional group comprises an enzyme, e.g., glucose oxidase, which produces a change in pH when glucose is present in a sample.

Abstract: Methods of positioning and orienting nanostructures, and particularly nanowires, on surfaces for subsequent use or integration. The methods utilize mask based processes alone or in combination with flow based alignment of the nanostructures to provide oriented and positioned nanostructures on surfaces. Also provided are populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, devices that include populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, systems for positioning and/or orienting nanostructures, and related devices, systems and methods.

Abstract: The use of semiconductor nanocrystals as detectable labels in various chemical and biological applications is disclosed. The methods find use for detecting a single analyte, as well as multiple analytes by using more than one semiconductor nanocrystal as a detectable label, each of which emits at a distinct wavelength.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for encoding a cell with semiconductor nanocrystals and/or other fluorophors are provided. The encoded cells can be subjected to functional assays in mixed populations, and an assay result can be determined and associated with individual cells by virtue of their code. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of encoded cells are to be assayed. The methods are used in screening methods for G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), for identifying the ligands and functions of orphan GPCRs, and for screening for modulators of GPCRs. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.

Abstract: The use of semiconductor nanocrystals as detectable labels in various chemical and biological applications is disclosed. The methods find use for detecting a single analyte, as well as multiple analytes by using more than one semiconductor nanocrystal as a detectable label, each of which emits at a distinct wavelength.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for encoding a cell with semiconductor nanocrystals and/or other fluorophors are provided. The encoded cells can be subjected to functional assays in mixed populations, and an assay result can be determined and associated with individual cells by virtue of their code. The methods are particularly useful in multiplex settings where a plurality of encoded cells are to be assayed. The methods are used in screening methods for G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), for identifying the ligands and functions of orphan GPCRs, and for screening for modulators of GPCRs. Kits comprising reagents for performing such methods are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a number of different methods for conducting assays with different types of addressable arrays utilizing semiconductor nanocrystals to enhance detection. The invention includes methods utilizing semiconductor nanocrystals with nucleic acid, protein and tissue arrays, for example. By utilizing various useful aspects of semiconductor nanocrystals, the invention also provides a variety of different options for conducting multiplexed assays. Additionally, detection methods involving counting of individual complexes that include semiconductor nanocrystals are provided which can be utilized to expand the dynamic range of detection.

Abstract: The use of semiconductor nanocrystals as detectable labels in various chemical and biological applications is disclosed. The methods find use for detecting a single analyte, as well as multiple analytes by using more than one semiconductor nanocrystal as a detectable label, each of which emits at a distinct wavelength.

Abstract: The use of semiconductor nanocrystals as detectable labels in various chemical and biological applications is disclosed. The methods find use for detecting a single analyte, as well as multiple analytes by using more than one semiconductor nanocrystal as a detectable label, each of which emits at a distinct wavelength.