Scanning Analyzer for Single Molecule Detection and Methods of Use

摘要

The invention encompasses analyzers and analyzer systems that include a single molecule analyzer, methods of using the analyzer and analyzer systems to analyze samples, either for single molecules or for molecular complexes. The single molecule uses electromagnetic radiation that is translated through the sample to detect the presence or absence of a single molecule. The single molecule analyzer provided herein is useful for diagnostics because the analyzer detects single molecules with zero carryover between samples.

主权项

1. A single molecule analyzer comprising:
(a) an electromagnetic radiation source for providing electromagnetic radiation to a sample container that comprises a sample; (b) a system for directing the electromagnetic radiation from the electromagnetic radiation source to an interrogation space in the sample; (c) a translating system for translating the interrogation space through at least a portion of the sample, thereby forming a moveable interrogation space; and (d) a detector for detecting electromagnetic radiation emitted from a single molecule in the interrogation space if the molecule is present, wherein the detector is operably connected to the interrogation space.