Two-dimensional latex assemblies for biosensors

Materials with surfaces allowing the controlled attachment of biomolecules that are suitable for recognition of the desired analyte, are often required for manufacturing of biosensors. There are many kinds of latex particles which, in principle, could be used for this purpose. In this paper there are described the results of our studies on the formation of two-dimensional latex assemblies covalently immobilized on the surface of solids. Computer simulations illustrate the general properties of the two-dimensional latex assemblies and provide a theoretical tool for discriminating between assemblies of particles with repulsion or attraction during deposition. An example of real assemblies is presented for the composite poly(styrene/acrolein) latex on the surface of quartz modified with gamma-aminopropyltriethoxysilane. The main characteristics of the morphology of two-dimensional assemblies are discussed. Immobilization of human serum albumin (HSA) and proteins from the goat anti-HSA serum on the two-dimensional latex assemblies as well as the potential suitability of materials with latex modified surfaces for the diagnostic applications are discussed.