Single-Analyte Array Surface Passivation for Orthogonal Binding

The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones: interstitial regions are passivated with molecules having specific chemical properties to prevent orthogonal binding, while defect regions maintain different chemical characteristics to permit intentional assay agent binding. This spatial differentiation of molecular properties enables simultaneous inhibition of unwanted binding and preservation of desired binding functionality.

The patent introduces passivating molecules as intermediary substances that mediate between the solid support and assay agents. These passivating molecules selectively interact with assay agents to prevent non-specific binding in interstitial regions, while the presence of defects in this passivated layer creates localized areas where assay agents can still bind intentionally to defects rather than to the passivating molecules themselves.

The patent converts the harmful effect of manufacturing imperfections into a beneficial feature by intentionally creating and utilizing defects in the passivated interstitial regions. These defects, which would normally be considered manufacturing errors, are instead engineered to serve as controlled binding sites for assay agents, transforming a source of variability into a functional advantage that reduces orthogonal binding.

The patent employs parameter changes by controlling the chemical and physical properties of the passivating molecules and the characteristics of the defects they form. By adjusting parameters such as molecular size, charge, hydrophobicity, and defect density, the system optimizes the balance between preventing orthogonal binding and maintaining sufficient assay agent binding sites, thereby managing manufacturing precision requirements.