Enhanced performance of an affinity biosensor interface based on mixed self-assembled monolayers of thiols on gold

An affinity biosensor interface of a biosensor is the interface between the sample and the transducer surface and is therefore of the utmost importance for the general performance of a biosensor. For immunosensor applications the affinity biosensor interface consists of antibodies, which are preferably covalently attached to the transducer surface. In this paper the properties and the enhanced performance of an affinity biosensor interface based on mixed self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold are discussed. Mixed SAMs consist of two different functionalities, which allow attachment of bioreceptor molecules and avoid nonspecific adsorption. In this work, mixed SAMs of thiols with carboxylic and hydroxyl or poly(ethylene glycol) groups are characterized with contact angle measurements, cyclic voltammetry, and grazing-angle Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It is found that the various mixed SAMs exhibit acceptable coverage and structural properties. Most importantly, surface plasmon resonance measurements clearly show the enhanced performance of these mixed SAMs with regard to sensitivity, stability, and selectivity compared to commercially available affinity biosensor interfaces. This superiority is experimentally demonstrated by evaluating the amount of immobilized antibodies, the recognition of antigens by the immobilized antibody, and the nonspecific adsorption of IgG molecules on the antibody-coated surfaces.