Recognition Receptors in Biosensors

This book presents a significant and up-to-date review of various recognition receptors, their immobilization, and an overview of surface characterization techniques. Distinguished scientists from key institutions worldwide have contributed chapters that provide a deep analysis of their particular subjects; at the same time, each topic is framed within the context of this integrated approach. This work explores comprehensively the field of recognition receptors, presenting a thorough review of the subject and effective integration of these receptors on sensor surfaces in order to appropriately convey state-of the-art fundamentals and applications of the most innovative approaches.

The book consists of four parts:

The first part comprises three chapters, which are devoted to the introduction of biomolecular recognition, surface sensitization and recognition receptors immobilization, as well as containing an overview of the analytical tools that can be used for surface characterization.

The second part describes the different natural recognition receptors (enzymes, antibodies, cells, tissues, plant tissues, peptides, bacteriophages and photosynthetic proteins) currently used in the field of biosensors and microarrays. It covers the theory behind each technique and delivers a detailed state-of-the-art review for each new technology.

The third part covers the recognition receptors that can be prepared and tailored by man to mimic natural molecules used in biosensors and microarrays. It describes in detail the use of engineered antibodies, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, oligonucleotides, aptamers, genetically engineered cells, genetically engineered proteins, phage display, molecularly imprinted polymers, and biomemetic materials as recognition elements.

The fourth part contains one chapter that briefly covers the kinetics and thermodynamics of association/dissociation of analytes to the recognition receptors on sensor surfaces.

Students and researchers who need a solid foundat