Transverse dielectrophoretic-based DNA nanoscale confinement

Sci Rep. 2018 Apr 13;8(1):5981. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-24132-5.

Abstract

Confinement of single molecules within nanoscale environments is crucial in a range of fields, including biomedicine, genomics, and biophysics. Here, we present a method that can concentrate, confine, and linearly stretch DNA molecules within a single optical field of view using dielectrophoretic (DEP) force. The method can convert an open surface into one confining DNA molecules without a requirement for bonding, hydrodynamic or mechanical components. We use a transverse DEP field between a top coverslip and a bottom substrate, both of which are coated with a transparent conductive material. Both layers are attached using double-sided tape, defining the chamber. The nanofeatures lie at the "floor" and do not require any bonding. With the application of an alternating (AC) electric field (2 Vp-p) between the top and bottom electrodes, a DEP field gradient is established and used to concentrate, confine and linearly extend DNA in nanogrooves as small as 100-nm in width. We also demonstrate reversible loading/unloading of DNA molecules into nanogrooves and nanopits by switching frequency (between 10 kHz to 100 kHz). The technology presented in this paper provides a new method for single-molecule trapping and analysis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Electric Conductivity
  • Electrodes
  • Electrophoresis / methods
  • Equipment Design / methods
  • Nanotechnology / methods*

Substances

  • DNA