Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 11
Claim 1
Independent Claim
92 words
A method of assay of a ligand in a sample using an electrochemical apparatus containing components comprising (a) the sample (b) a specific bindin q partner to the ligand, and (c) if desired, at least one reagent selected from ligand analogues and specific binding partners, at least one of the said components other than the sample bein q redox-modified (as herein defined); which method includes the step of determininq whether, and, if desired, the extent to which an electrochemical characteristic of the components is perturbed by complex formation and/or controlled external influences.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrochemical apparatus contains a solid working electrode.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
40 words
A method as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the controlled external influence, when present, comprises displacement of the complex formed relative to the working electrode of the electrochemical apparatus, or removal of the complex from the apparatus.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method as claimed in claim 2, wherein one of the components other than the sample is immobilised on the working electrode.
Claim 5
Independent Claim
46 words
A method as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2 and 4, wherein the controlled external influence, when present, comprises displacement of excess uncomplexed redox-modified component relative to the working electrode of the electrochemical apparatus, or removal of excess uncomplexed redox-modified component from the apparatus.
Claim 6
Independent Claim
28 words
A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the or each redox-modified component contains at least one redox centre formed from ferrocene or a functionalised derivative thereof.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the functionalised derivative of ferrocene contains one or more side chains of the formula -CHO, -(CH2)nCOOH or -(CH2)mNH2 (where n and m are each from 0 to 6).
Claim 8
Independent Claim
27 words
A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the electrochemical characteristic is a peak current observed under the application of a preselected potential across the components.
Claim 9
Independent Claim
17 words
A method as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the ligand is an antigen or an antibody.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
19 words
A kit of reagents and/or apparatus for carrying out a method of assay as claimed in any preceding claim.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
43 words
A kit of reagents and/or apparatus as claimed in claim 10, which comprises an electrochemical apparatus containing at least one electrode and/or an aqueous assay medium with redox-modified and/or unmodified reagent, the said reagent being in solution or immobilised on the working electrode.