Immobilization of biomolecules for an RET HIV sensor

An HIV biosensor is being developed that utilizes a RET (resonance energy transfer) dual receptor detection method. The dual receptor method exploits the multiple binding events that are required for HIV infectivity. Two biomolecules, CD4 and Mab (monoclonal antibody) that bind to gp120 (surface protein on HIV) were conjugated to RET fluorophores, AMCA-NHS and FITC respectively. During the binding event, the two labeled receptors dock to gp120 initiating the energy transfer resulting in a measurable change in fluorescence. In solution testing has established the feasibility of the technique. This paper reports on techniques to optimize the immobilization of the Mab antibodies to a substrate.