Novel Methodology for Immobilization of Biomolecules on the Surface of a Photoresponsible Polymer Containing Azobenzene Moiety

We have introduced the principles of a newly created photoimmobilization technology using photoresponsive azopolymers and reviewed its application to the fabrication of immunochip. We can consider two important factors in our approach, the deformation process that is induced by interaction between the micro-objects and the azopolymer surface, and the immobilization process that resulted from the deformation process. We believe that there is further potential to develop this technique more widely; for instance, applications involving biological molecules are an intriguing field with high potential for future growth, including aspects of molecular orientation and the formation of organized structures. This novel approach would serve as a stepping stone for further development. The research field could enlarge by considering how to use the immobilized surface such as biochip and bioreactor.