The present invention is directed to electronic methods of detecting target analytes such that upon binding of the target analyte a shift in electrochemical potential is seen. This assay relies on the use of an electroactive moiety (“EAM”) that is attached to an electrode and comprises a self-immolative moiety, whose presence gives the EAM a first E0, and whose absence, upon irreversible cleavage gives the EAM a second E0. This difference is detected, and if such change occurs, it is an indication of the presence of a target analyte.