With modern advances in scientific knowledge and technology, sensitive and reliable assays have been developed for the detection of several classes of analytes such as inorganic particles, organic solutes, and biological macromolecules. A common obstacle with many detection assays stems from the inability of these assays to detect low concentrations of analyte; a problem which can be circumvented through signal amplification. Using fluorogenic polymerization for signal amplification, we propose a quantifiable, sensitive, and relatively inexpensive strategy for detecting low concentrations of analyte in aqueous media. Fluorogenic polymerization can be utilized in the detection of many different analytes in solution. The detection of disease presents one of many applications for this high demand assay. Using Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP) initiators covalently bound to specific antibodies, we hope to amplify low concentrations of antigen in aqueous media to facilitate the detection of disease at its earliest onset. Synthesis and characterization of ATRP initiators for these applications will be discussed.

Fluorogenic polymerization amplification as a new platform for disease detection

255th National Meeting (2018)

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