Method for identifying biochemical and chemical reactions and micromechanical processes using nanomechanical and electronic signal identification

A method for detecting time-varying motions created on a microscopic scale by an enzyme using a scanning probe microscope having a physical tip for mechanical signal identification, comprising:

• (a) attaching an enzyme to a supporting matrix, wherein the enzyme is in solution and has time-varying micromotions due to interaction with a substrate;
• (b) locating the enzyme and positioning the physical tip of the scanning probe microscope in a stationary mode at the enzyme;
• (c) introducing the substrate into the solution, wherein the solution is allowed to come to rest and the substrate and the enzyme interact;
• and
• (d) monitoring the physical movements of the tip as a function of time as the interaction occurs, by using the scanning probe microscope in a stationary, non-scanning mode, thereby detecting micromotions caused by the enzyme's interaction with the substrate.

A method for detecting time-varying motions created on a microscopic scale using a scanning probe microscope having a physical tip for mechanical signal identification, comprising:

• (a) locating a single site comprising a molecule or molecules of interest having microscopic dimensions by using the scanning probe microscope in a locator mode, wherein the molecule or molecules have time-varying motions due to a biological, chemical, mechanical, optical, or electrical process;
• (b) attaching an intermediary body to the site of interest, whereby micromotions of the site of interest cause micromotions at the intermediary body;
• and
• (c) monitoring the physical movements of the intermediary as a function of time as the process occurs using laser interferometry, thereby detecting micromotions created at the site.