Protein microchips: Use for immunoassay and enzymatic reactions

Different proteins such as antibodies, antigens, and enzymes were immobiliz ed within the 100 x 100 x 20-mu m gel pads of protein microchips. A modifie d polyacrylamide gel has been developed to accommodate proteins of a size u p to 400,000 daltons, Electrophoresis in the microchip reaction chamber spe eded up antigen-antibody interactions within the gel. Protein microchips we re used in immunoassays for detection of antigens or antibodies, as well as to carry out enzymatic reactions and to measure their kinetics in the abse nce or presence of an inhibitor. A protein microchip can be used several ti mes in different immunoassays and enzymatic kinetic measurements. (C) 2000 Academic Press.