Surface functionalization and surface recognition: Plasmon optical detection of molecular recognition at self assembled monolayers

The synthesis of biotin- functionalized organic mercaptans and their chemisorption on gold surfaces is described. Biotin bound covalently to self assembled monolayers is recognized by streptavidin from aqueous buffer solutions. Spacer length and packing density of the biotin labels on the organic surface determine the docking kinetics. With a flexible and hydrophilic spacer very fast -diffusion controlled-docking is observed. As an alternative method of self assembly the spreading of organic mercaptans on water surfaces is established. Pressure-area diagrams of different functionalized mercaptans and disulfides are shown and their monolayer properties are discussed.