Method for detecting chemical interactions between naturally occurring bio-polymers which are non-identical binding partners
AssigneeAffymetrix, Inc.
InventorsCalvin F. Quate, Mark O. Trulson, Scott R. Manales, Jonathan E. Forman
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Abstract
A method of using micromechanical devices as sensors for detecting chemical interactions between naturally occurring bio-polymers which are non-identical binding partners is provided. The method is useful whether the reactions occur through electrostatic forces or other forces. Induced stress, heat, or change in mass is detected where a binding partner is placed on a cantilever for possible reaction with an analyte molecules (i.e., a non-identical binding partner). The method is particularly useful in determining DNA hybridization but may be useful in detecting interaction in any chemical assay.
Claims13
A method of detecting the chemical interaction between naturally occurring bio-polymers which are non-identical binding partners comprising:
- preparing the surface of at least one cantilever with a bio-polymer binding partner;
- introducing bio-polymer analyte molecules to said surface of said at least one cantilever;
- and
- detecting a physical or chemical change on said at least one cantilever.
A method of detecting the occurrence of a chemical interaction between naturally occurring bio-polymers which are non-identical binding partners comprising:
- making at least one cantilever;
- preparing the surface of said at least one cantilever with a first bio-polymer material which can act as a binding partner to a second bio-polymer material;
- introducing said second bio-polymer material to said at least one cantilever;
- and
- detecting a physical or chemical change on said at least one cantilever.
A method of detecting hybridization comprising:
- preparing the surface of at least one cantilever with a bio-polymer binding partner;
- introducing DNA to said at least one cantilever;
- detecting stress induced on said at least one cantilever.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.