Functionalized Solid-State Nanopore Integrated in a Reusable Microfluidic Device for a Better Stability and Nanoparticle Detection

ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2017 Dec 6;9(48):41634-41640. doi: 10.1021/acsami.7b14717. Epub 2017 Nov 21.

Abstract

Electrical detection based on single nanopores is an efficient tool to detect biomolecules, particles and study their morphology. Nevertheless the surface of the solid-state membrane supporting the nanopore should be better controlled. Moreover, nanopore should be integrated within microfluidic architecture to facilitate control fluid exchanges. We built a reusable microfluidic system integrating a decorated membran, rendering the drain and refill of analytes and buffers easier. This process enhances strongly ionic conductance of the nanopore and its lifetime. We highlight the reliability of this device by detecting gold nanorods and spherical proteins.

Keywords: ionic conductance; microfluidics; nanopore functionalization; nanopore transport; polymer brush; protein; solid-state nanopore.