Patent ID: 7307731
Filing Date: 2007-12-11
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of detecting a test body contained in a liquid, comprising the steps of: i) obtaining a fine structure body comprising a base body, which has a plurality of fine holes distributed and formed in one surface, and first fine metal particles, each of which has a size such that localized plasmon resonance is capable of being induced, and each of which is located in one of the fine holes of the base body such that a head region of each of the first fine metal particles is projected toward outside the surface of the base body, ii) locating the fine structure body in the liquid and in a state, in which a first binding substance capable of specifically binding to the test body has been fixed to the head region of each of the first fine metal particles, iii) dispersing a plurality of second fine metal particles, each of which has a size such that the localized plasmon resonance is capable of being induced, in the liquid and in a state, in which a second binding substance capable of specifically binding to the test body has been fixed to each of the second fine metal particles, iv) irradiating light to the surface of the fine structure body, where the head regions of the first fine metal particles are projected, v) measuring an intensity of the light, which has been reflected from the surface of the fine structure body, or the light, which has passed through the fine structure body, vi) outputting the measured intensity of the light in a form visible to a user, and vii) detecting the test body, which is contained in the liquid, in accordance with the measured intensity of the light.