Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is an optical technique used to measure molecular interactions in real-time without the need for labels. It is widely utilized in biosensing applications to determine binding affinity, kinetics, and concentration of biomolecules by detecting changes in the refractive index near a sensor surface.

Surface Plasmon Resonance

Surface plasmon resonance

optical technique

Molecular interactions are the forces that act between molecules and dictate the structure, dynamics, and function of biological systems. These interactions include various types of forces, such as hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, ionic bonds, and hydrophobic interactions, each playing a crucial role in processes like protein folding, enzyme activity, and cellular signaling.

molecular interactions

Real-time measurement

biosensing applications

Binding affinity refers to the strength of the interaction between a ligand and its target molecule, often quantified by the equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd). It is a critical parameter in drug design, influencing the efficacy and specificity of therapeutic agents.

binding affinity

Kinetics is the branch of chemistry and physics that studies the rates of chemical reactions and the factors affecting them, providing insight into reaction mechanisms and the steps involved in transforming reactants into products. Understanding kinetics is crucial for controlling industrial processes, predicting reaction behavior, and designing new materials and pharmaceuticals.

kinetics

concentration of biomolecules

The refractive index of a material quantifies how much light is bent, or refracted, when entering the material from another medium. It is a dimensionless number that indicates how much slower light travels in the material compared to a vacuum, influencing optical properties like reflection and transmission.

refractive index

A sensor surface refers to the specific area or layer of a sensor that interacts directly with the environment or target substance to detect changes or collect data. It is crucial for the sensor's accuracy and sensitivity, as its design and material composition determine the efficiency of signal detection and conversion.

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