METHODS FOR SENSITIVE AND RAPID DETECTION OF MOLECULES

In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods of detecting a molecule in a sample, such as an explosive. In some embodiments, the method comprises: associating the sample with an antigen/binding agent complex; measuring a rate of displacement of the binding agent from the antigen by the molecule in the sample; and correlating the measured rate of displacement to the presence of the molecule in the sample. In some embodiments, the measuring step comprises a determination of a change in frequency of the sample and a change in energy dissipation of the sample over a time interval. In some embodiments, the correlating step comprises a calculation of a ratio of a change in energy dissipation of the sample over a change in frequency of the sample over the time interval. In some embodiments, the method is used to determine the molecule concentration in the sample.