Nanosensor chip with composite nanopores

Abstract

A nanosensor chip for detecting and / or quantifying target molecules in a liquid sample includes a semiconductor or other substrate and one or more electrode structures. The substrate has one or more composite nanopores, referred to as "composite pores". Each composite pore is a pore formed in the substrate and includes a plurality of nanopores. Each nanopore is functionalized with an immobilized probe molecule for detection of a target molecule. For each composite hole, a respective electrode structure is disposed on the substrate. The electrode structure has a shape and position relative to the composite pore to apply an electric field across all of the nanopores in the composite pore and provide a conductive path for aggregated current through all of the nanopores in the composite pore. The aggregated current varies in response to target molecules in the liquid sample binding to probe molecules as a function of the electric field.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 383,491, filed April 12, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background technique [0003] Nanopipettes have been developed to detect biomolecules in liquid samples. Current nanopipette sensors have a single funnel-shaped structure with probe molecules on the inner walls of the structure. The nanopipette sensor is immersed in the liquid sample and an electric field is applied across the sensor. When an electric field is applied at a specific voltage, the target molecules bind to the probe molecules. This binding results in a detectable change in electrical current across the nanopipette sensor. [0004] Current nanopipette sensors made of quartz glass capillaries have significant disadvantages. They are difficult to fabricate and manufacture on a large scale. They are also fragile and easily damaged. Additiona...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

This binding results in a detectable change in electrical current across the nanopipette sensor

[0004] Current nanopipette sensors made from quartz glass capillaries have significant disadvantages

They are difficult to produce and manufacture on a large scale

They are also fragile and easily damaged

Additionally, individual nanopipettes vary widely and must be calibrated individually for accurate results

Nanopipette tips also undergo chemical and electrical degradation after repeated use, which can severely impact performance and limit reuse

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