Target analyte detection using asymmetrical self-assembled monolayers

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use asymmetric monolayer forming species and electroconduit forming species to detect target analytes.

1 . A method of modifying a metallic surface comprising contacting the metallic surface with an asymmetric monolayer forming species having the formula:  
       
         
           
           
               
               
           
         
       
       wherein 
 A is an attachment linker moiety;  
 MFS is a monlayer forming species; and  
 AG is an electroconduit forming species.  
 
     
     
         2 . A method according to  claim 1  further comprising contacting said metallic surface with a biological species having the formula: 
 A-MFS-capture binding ligand  
 wherein  
 A is an attachment linker; and  
 MFS is a monolayer forming species.  
 
     
     
         3 . A method according to  claim 2  wherein said capture binding ligand is a nucleic acid.  
     
     
         4 . A method according to  claim 2  wherein said capture binding ligand is a n protein.  
     
     
         5 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein A is sulfur.  
     
     
         6 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said metallic surface is gold.  
     
     
         7 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said MFS is an insulator.  
     
     
         8 . A method according to  claim 7  wherein said insulator comprises an alkyl group from about 7 to 20 carbons.  
     
     
         9 . A method according to  claim 8  wherein said alkyl group comprises a heteroalkyl.  
     
     
         10 . A method according to  claim 8  wherein said alkyl group comprises a substituted alkyl.  
     
     
         11 . A method according to  claim 1  wherein said AG comprises an alkyl group from about 1 to 6 carbons.  
     
     
         12 . A method according to  claim 1  or  11  wherein said AG is branched, having the formula:  
       
         
           
           
               
               
           
         
       
       wherein 
 R 3  through R 5  are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, alcohol, amine, amido, nitro, ether, ester, ketone, imino, aldehyde, alkoxy, carbonyl, halogen, sulfur containing moiety and phosphorus containing moiety;  
 
     
     
         13 . A method according to  claim 12  wherein said AG is attached to said attachment linker via a (CH 2 ) n  group, wherein n is an integer from 0 to 4.  
     
     
         14 . A method according to  claim 12  wherein said AG is attached directly to said attachment linker.