Appeal No. 2001-2521 Page 3
Application No. 08/738,464
Background
“Mass biosensors have been used to measure microquantities of
biological materials, and involve the use of a modified surface which selectively
binds a particular component. As explained in . . . U.S. Patent No. 5,306,644 to
Myerhol[t]z et al. . . . a preferred type of mass biosensor uses a piezoelectric
crystal as an acoustic waveguide. These sensors operate on the principle that
changes in the amount of mass attached to their surface cause shifts in the
resonant frequency.” Specification, pages 3-4.
“For example, and as explained in [Myerholtz], piezoelectric surface wave
devices have been used to measure the concentration of a specific antigen in
solution using a conventional assay format, as follows. The mass-sensitive
surface of the device is coated with a receptor layer which contains the antibody
corresponding to the antigen, thereby forming a sample-sensing device. A
reference device is also used which does not contain the antibody in the receptor
layer. The devices are then exposed to a sample solution, and antigen present
in the solution will bind to the receptor layer of the sample-sensing device,
thereby increasing the mass loading of the surface.” Id., page 4.
“The present invention . . . employs a piezoelectric mass biosensor for
continuous on-line monitoring of preselected analytes in a flowing liquid stream.”
Id., page 5. “One of the main advantages of using an STW [surface transverse
wave] biosensor for liquid chromatography detection is the ability to make
continuous measurements. . . . For example, as the chromatographic run takes
place, eluant passes from the column to the sensor. When the target analyte is
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