Diffraction-based assay for detecting multiple analytes.

The principles of diffraction are utilized to enable the simultaneous detection of multiple analytes in solution, forming the basis of a multi-analyte sensor. Probe molecules are immobilized on a substrate such that each type of molecule defines a specific pattern within the same region of substrate. The binding of a target molecule to its complementary probe is heralded by a characteristic diffraction image. This principle is demonstrated using antibody conjugates.