Light-dependent, covalent immobilization of biomolecules on 'inert' surfaces

We describe a novel, versatile procedure for the light-dependent immobilization of ligands to 'inert' material surfaces. Covalent immobilization of ligands differing in chemical nature and complexity is accomplished under mild and non-destructive conditions. Topical interaction of ligands with organic or inorganic surfaces is mediated by photoactivable polymers with carbene generating trifluoromethyl-aryl-diazirines which serve as linker molecules. Light activation of aryl-diazirino functions at 350 nm yields highly reactive carbenes, and covalent coupling is achieved by simultaneous carbene insertion into both the ligand and inert surface. Thus, reactive functional groups are not required on either the ligand or the supporting material. These procedures are applicable whenever ligands, from molecules to cells--synthetically or genetically produced, or isolated from biological sources--need to be immobilized for improved performance.