Signal detection techniques for the detection of analytes

Abstract

The invention relates to the use of signal processing methods in order to acheive higher signal to noise ratios, to increase the detection limits of target analytes. These techniques include the monitoring of the output signal at higher harmonic frequencies.

We claim:  
     
         1 . A method of detecting target analytes in a sample comprising: 
 a) providing an array comprising a plurality of electrodes, at least one of which comprises an assay complex comprising: 
 i) a capture binding ligand covalently attached to said electrode;  
 ii) a target analyte; and  
 iii) an electron transfer moiety;  
   b) applying a first input signal to said assay complex;    c) receiving an output signal;    d) processing said output signal to detect the presence of said target analytes.    
     
     
         2 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises higher harmonic analysis.  
     
     
         3 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises a fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis.  
     
     
         4 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises JTFT.  
     
     
         5 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises the use of a peak recognition scheme.  
     
     
         6 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises a digital filter.  
     
     
         7 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises signal averaging.  
     
     
         8 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises spectral analysis.  
     
     
         9 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said processing comprises peak recognition.  
     
     
         10 . A method of detecting target analytes in a sample comprising: 
 a) providing an array comprising a plurality of electrodes, at least one of which comprises an assay complex comprising: 
 i) a capture binding ligand covalently attached to said electrode;  
 ii) a target analyte; and  
 iii) an electron transfer moiety;  
   b) applying a first input signal to said assay complex, wherein said input signal comprises the sum of multiple frequencies at a plurality of amplitudes;    c) receiving an output signal;    d) processing said output signal to detect the presence of said target analytes.