Abstract: The invention provides an ELISA assay for the determination of serum mast cell ?-tryptase levels using rabbit anti-tryptase as the capture antibody and alkaline phosphatase conjugated G3 as the detecting antibody. Luminescent substrate CPSD was used to enhance the assay sensitivity. Also provided are methods for aiding in the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome by detecting the serum level of ?-tryptase, histamine and/or prostaglandin E2.

Abstract: This invention discloses using SPR technology to simultaneously and quantitatively measure the concentrations of different sex hormones in a serum sample, which can be used to evaluate different clinical situations. It also discloses an efficient formula to make a mixed SAM that can greatly enhance the immobilization ability of the metal surface in SPR based techniques, which is good for the immobilization of relevant antibodies used for the detection of representative sex hormones in a serum sample.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the detection of target analytes using electronic techniques, particularly AC techniques.

Abstract: The invention describes specific sialylated structures present on human stem cells and cell populations derived thereof. The invention is especially directed to methods to control the status of stem cells by observing changes in sialylation of the cells; and control of potential contaminations of biological materials; and reagents and methods used in connection with the cells in order to avoid alterations of the cell glycosylation by contaminating materials. The invention is further directed to novel stem cells, the glycosylation of which has been specifically altered.

Abstract: Renal injury and inflammation is diagnosed by detecting an elevation in GSK3b level or activity. Inflammation of bodily tissues such as renal tissue is inhibited by administration of GSK3b inhibitory compositions.

Abstract: This invention discloses using SPR technology to simultaneously and quantitatively measure the concentrations of different liver fibrosis-associated serum biomarkers in a serum sample, which can be used for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis. It also discloses an efficient formula to make a mixed SAM that can greatly enhance the immobilization ability of the metal surface in SPR based techniques, which is good for the immobilization of relevant antibodies used for the detection of liver fibrosis-associated serum biomarkers for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis.

Abstract: This invention discloses using SPR technology to simultaneously and quantitatively measure the concentrations of diabetes related immunological makers in a serum sample, which can be used to diagnose and/or early diagnose diabetes as well as to predict the onset risk of diabetes in first-degree relatives. It also discloses an efficient formula to make a mixed SAM that can greatly enhance the immobilization ability of the metal surface in SPR based techniques, which is good for the immobilization of relevant antigens and antibodies used for the detection of respective diabetes related immunological makers in a serum sample.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a plurality of metal nanoparticles functionalized with a plurality of organic molecules tethered thereto, wherein the plurality of organic molecules preferentially interact with one or more analytes when placed in proximity therewith. According to another embodiment, a method for detecting analytes includes contacting a fluid having one or more analytes of interest therein with a plurality of metal nanoparticles, each metal nanoparticle having a plurality of organic molecules tethered thereto, and detecting Raman scattering from an analyte of interest from the fluid, the analyte interacting with one or more of the plurality of organic molecules. In another embodiment, a method includes chemically modifying a plurality of cyclodextrin molecules at a primary hydroxyl moiety to create a chemical handle, and tethering the plurality of cyclodextrin molecules to a metal nanoparticle using the chemical handle. Other systems and methods for detecting analytes are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of isolating fragments of nucleic acid according to the density of CpG dinucleotides and subsequent procedures for producing a library and/or an array or microarray of these fragments, as well as uses thereof.

Abstract: Methods, systems, kits and assays for diagnosing, monitoring or screening for mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) and methods and systems for assaying test compounds for therapeutic activity are described, whereby MPS marker protein levels are assayed as an indication of MPS.

Abstract: Methods and devices for rapid lateral flow immunoassays to detect specific antibodies within a liquid sample while also validating the adequacy of the liquid sample for the presence of immunoglobulin and the integrity and immunoreactivity of the test reagents that detect the antibodies of interest, without requiring instrumentation. The methods and devices provide for delivery of a diluted liquid sample to a single location that simultaneously directs the liquid flow along two or more separate flow paths, one that serves as a positive control to confirm that all critical reagents of the test are immunoreactive, and that the sample being tested is adequate, and the other to detect specific antibodies if present.

Abstract: A composition is disclosed which is capable of being used for detection, comprising an encapsulated noble metal nanocluster. Methods for preparing the encapsulated noble metal nanoclusters, and methods of using the encapsulated noble metal nanoclusters are also disclosed. The noble metal nanoclusters are preferably encapsulated by a dendrimer or a peptide. The encapsulated noble metal nanoclusters have a characteristic spectral emission, wherein said spectral emission is varied by controlling the nature of the encapsulating material, such as by controlling the size of the nanocluster and/or the generation of the dendrimer, and wherein said emission is used to provide information about a biological state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detecting and/or measuring scattering effects due to the aggregating metallic nanostructures or the interaction of plasmonic emissions from approaching metallic nanoparticles. The scattering effects may be measured at different angles, different wavelengths, changes in absorption and/or changes in polarization relative to changes in the distances between nanoparticles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of using high mass matrix assisted laser desorption-ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the effect of drug candidates on protein complexes such as protein-protein interactions in purified samples or complex biological matrices, as well as to the use of this method for lead compound optimization, drug characterization, drug manufacturing processes, and drug quality control processes, including automated high throughput applications.

Abstract: A method of preparing a protein-resistant reactive solid support surface is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a solid support having a hydrogel coating with a plurality of binding elements, coupling a protein resistant compound to the hydrogel via a first fraction of the binding elements, and coupling at least one binding agent to the hydrogel via a second fraction of the binding elements, whereby the protein resistant compound and the at least one binding agent are co-immobilized to the hydrogel. Also the use of the reactive surface in analysis, such as immunogenicity assays, is disclosed.

Abstract: An optical sensor and method for use with a visible-light laser excitation beam and a Raman spectroscopy detector, for detecting the presence chemical groups in an analyte applied to the sensor are disclosed. The sensor includes a substrate, a plasmon resonance mirror formed on a sensor surface of the substrate, a plasmon resonance particle layer disposed over the mirror, and an optically transparent dielectric layer about 2-40 nm thick separating the mirror and particle layer. The particle layer is composed of a periodic array of plasmon resonance particles having (i) a coating effective to binding analyte molecules, (ii) substantially uniform particle sizes and shapes in a selected size range between 50-200 nm (ii) a regular periodic particle-to-particle spacing less than the wavelength of the laser excitation beam. The device is capable of detecting analyte with an amplification factor of up to 1012-1014, allowing detection of single analyte molecules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing lanthanide-doped NaYF4 nanocrystals, the method comprising: (A) providing a first solution comprising a non-coordinating solvent, a fatty acid coordinating ligand, sodium trifluoroacetate, yttrium trifluoroacetate, a first doping lanthanide trifluoroacetate and a second doping lanthanide trifluoroacetate, and a second solution comprising the non-coordinating solvent and the fatty acid coordinating ligand, the first and second solutions being substantially free of water and oxygen; (B) in an inert atmosphere, slowly adding the first solution heated at a temperature between about 100° C. and about 150° C. to the second solution heated at temperature between about 290° C. and about 330° C., thereby producing a reaction mixture containing the nanocrystals; and (C) recovering the nanocrystals from the reaction mixture.

Abstract: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in the elderly whose etiology remains largely unknown. Previous studies identified chromosome 1q32 as harboring a susceptibility locus for AMD, but it was not identified. We identified a strongly associated haplotype in two independent data sets. DNA sequencing of the complement factor II gene (CFII) within this haplotype revealed a coding variant, Y402II, that significantly increases the risk for AMD with odds ratios between 2.45 and 5.57. This identifies Complement factor II as involved in pathogenesis of AMD. This single variant alone is so common that it likely explains 43 percent of AMD in older adults. In addition, we have replicated and refined previous reports implicating a coding change in LOC387715 as the second major AMD susceptibility allele. The effect of rs10490924 appears to be completely independent of the Y402H variant in the CFH gene.

Abstract: An apparatus providing programmable illumination pattern generation for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules in suspension between electrodes is disclosed. The apparatus implements LEAPS (light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces), which relies on AC electric field-induced assembly of particles, patterning of an electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process, and real-time control of assembly via external illumination. The apparatus generates patterns of illumination and projects them onto planar surfaces, i.e., LEAPS electrodes.

Abstract: In the present invention, a target substance detection material, which includes a metal structure, a target substance capturing unit, and a polymer matrix retaining the metal structure and the target substance capturing unit, captures a target substance, and as a result, the volume of the polymer matrix is changed. Such a change in the volume of the polymer matrix is measured as a change in the optical properties of the metal structure, and the target is detected. Thereby, the present invention provides a target substance detection material having good operability and high performance, which includes a metal structure as a labeled form, and a target substance detection method for detecting the presence or absence of a target substance in a specimen and/or the concentration thereof, using the material.

Abstract: Materials and methods for studying and modulating the interaction of carbohydrate-containing moieties with other species are described, in particular, small particles, e.g. clusters of metal or semiconductor atoms, which can be employed as a substrate for immobilising a plurality of ligands comprising carbohydrate groups. These “nanoparticles” can then be used to study carbohydrate mediated interactions, e.g. with other carbohydrates or proteins, and as therapeutics and diagnostic reagents.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the synthesis of unagglomerated, highly dispersed, stable core/shell nanocomposite particles comprised of preparing a reverse micelle microemulsion that contains nanocomposite particles, treating the microemulsion with a silane coupling agent, breaking the microemulsion to form a suspension of the nanocomposite particles by adding an acid/alcohol solution to the microemulsion that maintains the suspension of nanocomposite particles at a pH of between about 6 and 7, and simultaneously washing and dispersing the suspension of nanocomposite particles, preferably with a size exclusion HPLC system modified to ensure unagglomeration of the nanocomposite particles. The primary particle size of the nanocomposite particles can range in diameter from between about 1 to 100 nm, preferably from between about 10 to 50 nm, more preferably about 10 to 20 nm, and most preferably about 20 nm.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relies on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: This invention seeks to provide methods and apparatus for analysis. Electromagnetic radiation is transmitted through a plurality of metallic islands on a transparent substrate. A resultant optical property of the plurality of metallic islands is measured. Thereafter a chemical substance is adsorbed onto the plurality of metallic islands so as to produce a chemical substance-metallic islands moiety. Electromagnetic radiation is transmitted through the chemical substance-metallic islands moiety and a resultant optical property of metallic islands in the chemical substance-metallic islands moiety is measured.

Abstract: An assay and method of making same for use in SERS spectroscopy. The assay includes colloidal particles of a metal, which have been lyophilized. The lyophilized particles of metal produce a SERS active solution when reconstituted. The lyophilized particles of metal may be provided in a container in an assay system.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more of a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and device for simultaneously testing a sample for the presence, absence, and/or amounts of one or more a plurality of selected analytes. The invention includes, in one aspect, a device for detecting or quantitating a plurality of different analytes in a liquid sample. The device includes a substrate which defines a sample-distribution network having (i) a sample inlet, (ii) one or more detection chambers, and (iii) channel means providing a dead-end fluid connection between each of the chambers and the inlet Each chamber may include an analyte-specific reagent effective to react with a selected analyte that may be present in the sample, and detection means for detecting the signal. Also disclosed are methods utilizing the device.

Abstract: A biosensor provided herein includes a semiconductor laser device having an optical resonator with at least one reflective surface and a light output surface, and a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) unit disposed on the reflective surface of the optical resonator. The SPR unit has specific biological molecules fixed thereon for reacting with corresponding biological molecules of an analyzed object.

Abstract: An assay test strip includes a flow path, a sample receiving zone, a label, a detection zone that includes a region of interest, and at least one position marker. The at least one position marker is aligned with respect to the region of interest such that location of the at least one position marker indicates a position of the region of interest. A diagnostic test system includes a reader that obtains light intensity measurement from exposed regions of the test strip, and a data analyzer that performs at least one of (a) identifying ones of the light intensity measurements obtained from the test region based on at least one measurement obtained from the at least one reference feature, and (b) generating a control signal modifying at least one operational parameter of the reader based on at least one measurement obtained from the at least one reference feature.

Abstract: A concentrated and ligand-coated gold colloid and a method of preparing it. Also disclosed is a rapid biomolecule quantification assay involving the use of the concentrated gold colloid and an apparatus for performing the assay.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particulates and biomolecules at the interface between an insulating electrode such as silicon oxide and an electrolyte solution. Light-controlled electrokinetic assembly of particles near surfaces relics on the combination of three functional elements: the AC electric field-induced assembly of planar aggregates; the patterning of the electrolyte/silicon oxide/silicon interface to exert spatial control over the assembly process; and the real-time control of the assembly process via external illumination. The present invention provides a set of fundamental operations enabling interactive control over the creation and placement of planar arrays of several types of particles and biomolecules and the manipulation of array shape and size. The present invention enables sample preparation and handling for diagnostic assays and biochemical analysis in an array format, and the functional integration of these operations.

Abstract: Electrokinetic devices and methods are described with the purpose of collecting assayable agents from a dielectric fluid medium. Electrokinetic flow may be induced by the use of plasma generation at high voltage electrodes and consequent transport of charged particles in an electric voltage gradient. In one embodiment, the agents are directed electrokinetically to the sample collection assay device with no intermediate transfer steps. The agents are directed by creation of an electrokinetic potential well, which will effect their capture on to an assay device. Environmental agents such as biowarfare agents, pathogens, allergens or pollutants are collected autonomously on to the assay device, without any human intervention. The dielectric fluid medium, such as air, is sampled by electrokinetic propulsion with no moving parts or optionally, by transporting the dielectric fluid by a fan, pump or by breath.

Abstract: The present invention provides for increasing fluorescence detection in surface assay systems while increasing kinetics of a bioreaction therein by providing low-power microwaves to irradiate metallic materials within the system in an amount sufficient to increase heat thereby affecting the kinetics of a bioreaction therein.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for interrogating a target having a plurality of plasmon resonant particles (PREs) distributed in the target are disclosed. In the method, a field containing the target is illuminated, and one or more spectral emission characteristics of the light-scattering particles in the field are detected. From this data, an image of positions and spectral characteristic values in the field is constructed, allowing PREs with a selected spectral signature to be discriminated from other light-scattering entities, to provide information about the field. Also disclosed are a novel PRE composition for use in practicing the method, and a variety of diagnostic applications of the method.

Abstract: An ultra sensitive method for detection of biomolecules includes the step of providing a plurality of bioreceptor functionalized nanoparticle probes. The nanoparticles can include metal, semiconductor, radioactive isotope or fluorescent dye molecules. A sample solution suspected of including the target is contacted with the probes, wherein if present, the target binds to the bioreceptor. After such binding a separating step follows. In the separating step, probes having the target bound thereto are separated from probes not having the target bound thereto. In one embodiment probes having the target bound thereto are then decomposed to generate ions, or broken into discrete radioactive isotopes or fluorescent dye molecules to form a solution including a large plurality of metal ions, radioactive isotopes or dye molecules.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the detection of antigens are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are disclosed.

Abstract: Assay modules, preferably assay cartridges, are described as are reader apparatuses which may be used to control aspects of module operation. The modules preferably comprise a detection chamber with integrated electrodes that may be used for carrying out electrode induced luminescence measurements. Methods are described for immobilizing assay reagents in a controlled fashion on these electrodes and other surfaces. Assay modules and cartridges are also described that have a detection chamber, preferably having integrated electrodes, and other fluidic components which may include sample chambers, waste chambers, conduits, vents, bubble traps, reagent chambers, dry reagent pill zones and the like. In certain preferred embodiments, these modules are adapted to receive and analyze a sample collected on an applicator stick.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of imaging structures and features using plasmonic emissions from metallic surfaces caused by chemiluminescence based chemical and biological reactions wherein imaging of the reactions is enhanced by the use of microwave energy and further enhanced by using metallic geometric structures for spatially and temporally controlling the biological and chemical reactions.

Abstract: The present invention measures defect fluorescence exhibited from a defect level mainly on a semiconductor nanoparticle surface site which has an energy level existing inside the forbidden band of energy levels inside the semiconductor nanoparticle.

Abstract: A SERS active particle having a metal-containing particle and a cationic coating on the metal-containing particle, wherein the SERS active particle carries a positive charge is disclosed. Also, a SERS active particle having a metal-containing particle and a non-metallic molecule, wherein the metal-containing particle is derivatized with the non-metallic molecule is disclosed. In addition, several methods of modifying the nanoparticles surfaces of a SERS active particle and of improving the interaction between the SERS active particle and an analyte are disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided a method, an in vitro method and a detection system for detecting the presence of at least one biological molecule in at least one sample. The method can include, for example, providing a sample and/or a binding agent to a contact portion of a surface by way of at least one microfluidic channel; disposing a liquid crystal at the contact portion; determining whether the orientation of the liquid crystal changes after the sample contacts the binding agent, indicating the presence of the biological molecule; and determining length of bright region of the liquid crystal and/or change in interference color of said liquid crystal, and consequently indicating the quantity of said biological molecule. Also disclosed are methods of detecting biological molecules using at least one 4?-pentyl-biphenyl-4-R, where R may be at least one functional group selected from carboxylic acid, amine, aldehyde, and oligopeptide.

Abstract: The invention concerns a diagnostic kit for simultaneous assay of antibiotics of different classes. The kit contains a single reaction mixture containing at least one first labelled receptor, specific of recognition of ?-lactams, a second labelled receptor, specifically and competitively identifying a tetracycline and a biotinylated nucleic acid fragment, an antisulfamide antibody and a labelled sulfamide analogue; and a recovery system in the form of a solid support comprising a nitrocellulose membrane whereon are fixed in three separate testing zones, respectively an antibiotic with ?-lactam nucleus, an avidin and an antibody capable of specifically identifying the antisulfamide antibody, so that the labelling intensity detected on the recovery system at the three testing zones results independently from a competitive recognition of each antibiotic by its labelled receptor.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a biosensor that can detect binding of a compound with a functional protein and then assay a reaction product derived from the activity of the functional protein again.

Abstract: A method and kit for determining the quantity of an analyte include providing a functionalized substrate and a reagent. The functionalized substrate includes metallic nanoparticles and a plurality of substantively identical bioactive target molecules affixed to a substrate. The bioactive target molecule binds to a particular analyte. The reagent includes identical detection molecules. Each detection molecule includes a fluorophore, and binds to a particular analyte or competes with a particular analyte for binding to the target molecule. The functionalized substrate is contacted to a test sample and the reagent. The functionalized substrate and a covering solution are exposed to polarized electromagnetic waves that excite the fluorophore. A quantity of the particular analyte in the test sample is determined based on measuring polarization anisotropy of fluorescent emissions from the substrate and the covering solution.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for interrogating a target having a plurality of plasmon resonant particles (PREs) distributed in the target are disclosed. In the method, a field containing the target is illuminated, and one or more spectral emission characteristics of the light-scattering particles in the field are detected. From this data, an image of positions and spectral characteristic values in the field is constructed, allowing PREs with a selected spectral signature to be discriminated from other light-scattering entities, to provide information about the field. Also disclosed are a novel PRE composition for use in practicing the method, and a variety of diagnostic applications of the method.

Abstract: A formulation comprises quantum dots and a quenching-preventive agent in a carrier material. The quenching-preventive agent is a metal chelating agents, a corrosion inhibitor, or a combination thereof. The formulation can be applied to a metal substrate, without experiencing metal ion induced fluorescence quenching.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biosensor, wherein non-specific adsorption on a surface that does not retain a physiologically active substance (reference unit) is suppressed. The biosensor of the invention includes a substrate having at least two types of surfaces on a single plane, wherein at least one of the surfaces does not retain a physiologically active substance, and wherein at least two types of hydrophilic compounds with different molecular weights are bound to the surface that does not retain a physiologically active substance.

Abstract: A grating-based sensor is disclosed that has a grating structure constructed and designed for both evanescent resonance (ER) fluorescence detection and label-free detection applications. Some embodiments are disclosed which are optimized for ER detection in an air mode, in which the sample is dry. Other embodiments are optimized for ER detection in liquid mode, in which the sample is suspended in liquid medium such as water. One and two-dimensional gratings are also disclosed, including gratings characterized by unit cells with central posts, central holes, and two-level, two-dimensional gratings. A readout system for such sensors is also disclosed. One embodiment includes a first light source optimized for collecting label-free detection data, a second light source optimized for collecting ER fluorescence amplification data, and at least one detector. In one embodiment, the detector is an imaging system and includes a CCD camera for collecting both ER and label-free data.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes methods, devices, reagents, and kits for the detection of one or more target molecules that may be present in a test sample. The described methods, devices, kits, and reagents facilitate the detection and quantification of a non-nucleic acid target (e.g., a protein target) in a test sample by detecting and quantifying a nucleic acid (i.e., an aptamer). The methods described create a nucleic acid surrogate for a non-nucleic acid target, thus allowing the wide variety of nucleic acid technologies, including amplification, to be applied to a broader range of desired targets, especially protein targets. The disclosure further describes aptamer constructs that facilitate the use of aptamers in a variety of analytical detection applications.

Abstract: The present invention comprises compositions and methods for delivery systems of agents, including therapeutic compounds, pharmaceutical agents, drugs, detection agents, nucleic acid sequences and biological factors. In general, these vector compositions comprise a colloidal metal, derivatized PEG (polyethylene glycol) and an agent. The invention also comprises methods and compositions for making such colloidal metal compositions and for treatment of cancer.