Label-free detection of DNA hybridization and single point mutations in a nano-gap biosensor

Nanotechnology. 2014 Mar 14;25(10):105501. doi: 10.1088/0957-4484/25/10/105501. Epub 2014 Feb 14.

Abstract

We describe a conductance-based biosensor that exploits DNA-mediated long-range electron transport for the label-free and direct electrical detection of DNA hybridization. This biosensor platform comprises an array of vertical nano-gap biosensors made of gold and fabricated through standard photolithography combined with focused ion beam lithography. The nano-gap walls are covalently modified with short, anti-symmetric thiolated DNA probes, which are terminated by 19 bases complementary to both the ends of a target DNA strand. The nano-gaps are separated by a distance of 50 nm, which was adjusted to fit the length of the DNA target plus the DNA probes. The hybridization of the target DNA closes the gap circuit in a switch on/off fashion, in such a way that it is readily detected by an increase in the current after nano-gap closure. The nano-biosensor shows high specificity in the discrimination of base-pair mismatching and does not require signal indicators or enhancing molecules. The design of the biosensor platform is applicable for multiplexed detection in a straightforward manner. The platform is well-suited to mass production, point-of-care diagnostics, and wide-scale DNA analysis applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • DNA / genetics*
  • DNA Probes / chemistry*
  • DNA Probes / genetics*
  • Electrochemistry / instrumentation
  • Equipment Design
  • Gold
  • Nanostructures
  • Nucleic Acid Hybridization
  • Point Mutation*

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • Gold
  • DNA