Surface-bound affinity complex

In principle, electrochemical transducers can be used to detect the formation of a surface-bound affinity complex when the affinity-binding reaction is associated with a change in electrical properties (e.g., ion permeability or capacitance) of the layer immobilized onto the electrode surface. For example, the so-called ion-chemnel sensors detect permeabilily changes of a film immobilized on an electrode surface to an electroactive molecule, which is used as a redox marker. The formation of a surface-bound affinity complex results in a permeability change, which can be monitored by the change of cyclic voltammetric response of the redox marker. 

The absorption of sulfonylureas from the upper gastrointestinal tract is faidy rapid and complete. The agents are transported in the blood as protein-bound complexes. As they are released from protein-binding sites, the free (unbound) form becomes available for diffusion into tissues and to sites of action. Specific receptors are present on pancreatic islet P-ceU surfaces which bind sulfonylureas with high affinity. Binding of sulfonylureas to these receptors appears to be coupled to an ATP-sensitive channel to stimulate insulin secretion. These agents may also potentiate insulin-stimulated glucose transport in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. 

Still other types of chemically functional membranes—particularly adsorptive microfiltration membranes containing affinity ligands or other complexants bound to interior pore wall surfaces—are capable of... 

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