Real-time reliable determination of binding kinetics of DNA hybridization using a multi-channel graphene biosensor

Nat Commun. 2017 Mar 21:8:14902. doi: 10.1038/ncomms14902.

Abstract

Reliable determination of binding kinetics and affinity of DNA hybridization and single-base mismatches plays an essential role in systems biology, personalized and precision medicine. The standard tools are optical-based sensors that are difficult to operate in low cost and to miniaturize for high-throughput measurement. Biosensors based on nanowire field-effect transistors have been developed, but reliable and cost-effective fabrication remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate that a graphene single-crystal domain patterned into multiple channels can measure time- and concentration-dependent DNA hybridization kinetics and affinity reliably and sensitively, with a detection limit of 10 pM for DNA. It can distinguish single-base mutations quantitatively in real time. An analytical model is developed to estimate probe density, efficiency of hybridization and the maximum sensor response. The results suggest a promising future for cost-effective, high-throughput screening of drug candidates, genetic variations and disease biomarkers by using an integrated, miniaturized, all-electrical multiplexed, graphene-based DNA array.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques*
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA Probes / chemistry
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • High-Throughput Screening Assays / economics
  • High-Throughput Screening Assays / instrumentation*
  • Kinetics
  • Limit of Detection
  • Miniaturization
  • Models, Chemical
  • Nucleic Acid Hybridization*
  • Reproducibility of Results

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • Graphite
  • DNA