Orientation Control of the Molecular Recognition Layer for Improved Sensitivity: a Review.

Biosensors have been used in various fields of biological analysis, such as for quantification of analytes and the study of molecule-molecule interactions. Orientation control of the molecular recognition layer is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve the sensitivity of biosensors. In this review, the orientation control of molecular recognition molecules, such as antibodies, aptamers, and enzymes, is discussed. The review compares the improvement in the sensitivity and binding activity of biosensors achieved through orientation control with that achieved through random orientation. Immobilization methods of antibodies for orientation control are first discussed, with a focus on immobilization of the fragment crystallizable region of antibodies, which is the most studied technique. Covalent and non-covalent immobilization strategies are also discussed, and their effect on the sensitivity of biosensors is summarized. Lastly, the orientation control of other molecular recognition molecules (aptamers and enzymes) was discussed and the applications of molecular recognition molecules as biosensors are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]