Sensitive detection method of dielectric dispersions in aqueous-based, surface-bound macromolecular structures using microwave spectroscopy

An approach for measuring the dispersions in the microwave regime of larger aqueous-based molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids is presented. T his method allows for the identification of molecular structures, changes i n structures, and various types of intermolecular interactions via the dire ct detection of the dispersion properties of the system, and further allows for the measurement in physiologic environments such as aqueous buffers. B y placing the molecular system on a surface, the structures and interaction s are reduced to a two-dimensional sample, and thus the sensitivity of the measurement strategy is greatly enhanced. (C) 1999 American Institute of Ph ysics. [S0003-6951(99)00538-0].