Microcantilever Biosensors

Microcantilever arrays have been used for multiplexed, label-free detection of biomolecules. Adsorption of analyte molecules on immobilized receptors on the cantilevers result in cantilever bending due to surface free energy variation. Piezoresistive readout of cantilever bending offers a simple method of signal transduction that is compatible with microfabrication. Although the microcantilever-based biosensing appears to high sensitivity and selectivity, reproducibility of the technique appears to be a challenge. We have developed a novel method of immobilizing receptors that increases the reproducibility. We have demonstrated simultaneous detection of cancer and cardiac markers using cantilever arrays with immobilized receptors.