Disclosed is a method for characterizing carbohydrate polymer by
identifying at least two binding agents that bind to the carbohydrate
polymer. Binding is preferably determined by contacting the carbohydrate
polymer with substrate that contains a plurality of first
saccharide-binding agents affixed at predetermined locations on the
substrate. The carbohydrate polymer is allowed to contact the substrate
under conditions that allow for formation of a first complex between the
first saccharide-binding agent and the carbohydrate polymer. A second
saccharide-binding agent, which preferably includes a label, is also
contacted with the carbohydrate polymer under conditions that allow for
formation of a second complex between the second binding agent and the
first complex. Identification of the first and second binding agent
allows for characterization of the polysaccharide.