The present invention relates generally to substituted benzofurans, benzothiophenes, and indoles and their use as tubulin polymerization inhibitors. The method allows a device to be inserted in the disc either through a pre-existing rupture or through an opening formed in the front, back, or sides of the disc. The thin layer may have a stoichiometrical composition or a non-stoichiometrical composition. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor.