Abstract:
A method and apparatus for the manipulation of colloidal particles 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. In addition, the present invention provides a procedure for the creation of material surfaces with desired properties and for the fabrication of surface-mounted optical components.
Abstract:
This invention provides compositions and methods for genetic testing of an organism and for correlating the results of the genetic testing with a unique marker that unambiguously identifies the organism. The markers may be internal markers, such as for example single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), short tandem repeats (STRs), or other sites within a genomic locus. Alternatively, the markers may be external, such that they are separately added to the genetic sample before testing.
Abstract:
Disclosed are gel-coated beads (including Hydrogel™-coated beads), which are capable of adsorbing, or absorbing, proteins and other biomolecules onto or into the gel coating. The gel-coated beads with absorbed or adsorbed biomolecules are suitable for use in an assays, purification or other purposes. The beads have a core made from any of a number of materials, including latex, coated with the gel shell. The biomolecules can be retained within the gel, following adsorption, by covalent attachment, or, by selection of conditions of ambient pH and/or ionic strength such that they are retained without further reaction. Therefore, adsorbed proteins would retain the ability to bind to their respective ligands.
Abstract:
This invention provides high unit density arrays of microparticles and methods of assembling such arrays. The microparticles in the arrays may be functionalized with chemical or biological entities specific to a given target analyte. The high unit density arrays of this invention are formed on chips which may be combined to form multichip arrays according to the methods described herein. The chips and/or multichip arrays of this invention are useful for chemical and biological assays.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a systematic process for the creation of functionally organized, spatially patterned assemblies polymer-microparticle composites including the AC electric field-mediated assembly of patterned, self supporting organic (polymeric) films and organic (polymeric)—microparticle composite films of tailored composition and morphology; the present invention further relates to the incorporation of said assemblies into other structures. The present invention. also relates to the application of such functional assemblies in materials science and biology. Additional areas of application include sensors, catalysts, membranes, micro-reactors, smart materials. Miniaturized format for generation of multifunctional thin films. Provides a simple set-up to synthesize thin films of tailored composition and morphology:
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a systematic process for the creation of functionally organized, spatially patterned assemblies polymer-microparticle composites including the AC electric field-mediated assembly of patterned, self supporting organic (polymeric) films and organic (polymeric)-microparticle composite films of tailored composition and morphology; the present invention further relates to the incorporation of said assemblies into other structures. The present invention also relates to the application of such functional assemblies in materials science and biology. Additional areas of application include sensors, catalysts, membranes, micro-reactors, smart materials. Miniaturized format for generation of multifunctional thin films. Provides a simple set-up to synthesize thin films of tailored composition and morphology.
Abstract:
Disclosed is a registry system, including member institutions, in which transfusion donors and recipients are registered following genotyping, which would typically take place in a member institution, or a member institution would have access to the genotyping information, if performed outside. The registry database can be accessed and searched by members seeking samples of particular type(s). Systems are disclosed for maintaining economic viability of genotyping in connection with transfusions, by maximizing the number of units placed with the minimal number of candidate donors typed. Genotyping of potential donors, and product supply, is matched to forecasted demand. Genotyping can also be limited to the more clinically relevant markers. The registry system can also be integrated with one format of assay which generates an image for analysis, whereby the imaged results can be analyzed and redacted by experts in a central location, and then transmitted back to the patient or their representative.
Abstract:
Disclosed is an apparatus and method of maintaining chips or arrays of particles, or arrays of particles deposited on chip surfaces, in a designated area on a substrate surface. This is accomplished by having hydrophilic chips or arrays of particles, and a substrate which has a series of hydrophilic regions designed to accommodate the chips/arrays of particles, surrounded by hydrophobic regions. In the presence of aqueous solution, the chips or arrays of particles are held in the designated regions.