Visible light photopolymerization for the detection of biomolecular recognition

POLY 77

Ryan Robert Hansen, ryan.hansen@colorado.edu1, Hadley D. Sikes1, Leah M. Johnson1, and Christopher N. Bowman, christopher.bowman@colorado.edu2. (1) Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, ECCH 111, Campus Box 424, Boulder, CO 80309, (2) Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, ECCH 111, Campus Box 424, Boulder, CO 80309-0424
In order to recognize the full potential for biochip-based diagnostic technology, signal amplification methods must be developed that provide quick and inexpensive analysis without compromising sensitivity or specificity. We report a method of signal amplification using photopolymerization that relies on coupling photoinitators to hybridized, target nucleic acids on a biochip surface. Monomers are then polymerized in order to amplify a positive signal and provide specific identification of genetic biomarkers. This method has shown to provide high sensitivity and amplification equivalent to PCR based amplification methods. A visible photoinitiator has been developed that is capable of binding to biotinylated target oligonucleotides attached to biochip surfaces and that provides the ability to initiate polymerization of selected fluorescent hydrogel precursor solutions upon exposure to the appropriate light source. This detection system is capable of producing micron thick hydrogel films visible to the unaided eye from small quantities of target material.
 

Polymers in Biosensors and Biochips
1:30 PM-4:40 PM, Sunday, 10 September 2006 San Francisco Marriott -- Salon 12/13, Oral

Division of Polymer Chemistry

The 232nd ACS National Meeting, San Francisco, CA, September 10-14, 2006