Biosensor Bridge Molecule Single-Molecule Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current field-effect transistor (FET)-type biosensor systems lack sensitivity for single molecule detection and identification, limiting their use in biochemical assays such as single molecule sequencing reactions, and face challenges with carbon nanostructures in terms of precision, control, and scalability for sensor manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
The development of biosensors with a bridge molecule spanning a sensor gap between electrodes, where the bridge molecule is a biopolymer or chemically synthesized molecule, allowing for precise engineering and self-assembly, enabling single molecule detection and improved sensor density through CMOS fabrication methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If FET-type biosensor systems are used, then chemical concentration measurements can be performed, but sensitivity for single molecule detection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into distinct functional regions: a molecular probe region for single molecule interaction, a transduction region for signal conversion, and a readout region for signal processing. This segmentation allows optimization of each region for its specific function, enabling single molecule detection sensitivity while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A molecular probe acts as an intermediary between the target molecule and the FET sensor. The probe concentrates and transduces the interaction with single target molecules into detectable electrical signals, bridging the gap between single molecule events and macroscopic measurement
2Measurement precision
If carbon nanostructures are used to form the channel, then sensitivity may be improved, but precision, control, and scalability for manufacturing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces carbon nanotube-based mechanical/structural channels with CMOS-compatible semiconductor channel structures. This substitution enables precise control through standard semiconductor fabrication processes while maintaining the sensitivity benefits of nanoscale channel dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The channel material and dimensional parameters are optimized within CMOS fabrication capabilities. Channel width, length, and doping profiles are precisely controlled through semiconductor processing parameters, achieving sensitivity comparable to carbon nanostructures with superior manufacturing precision
3Ease of manufacture
If carbon nanotubes are synthesized, then channel structures can be formed, but precision, control, and scale of synthesis are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor design utilizes universal CMOS fabrication processes that can simultaneously produce multiple sensors with precise control over channel dimensions, doping, and electrical characteristics. This enables high-density sensor arrays with consistent performance across large production volumes
Solution Approach 2:
Standard CMOS fabrication techniques allow for precise replication of sensor structures across wafer-scale production. Each sensor is a precise copy of the designed structure, ensuring uniformity in channel dimensions, probe configuration, and electrical properties
4Measurement precision
If single molecule detection capability is achieved, then sensitivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The molecular probe is nested within the FET structure, with the probe positioned at the channel entrance or integrated into the gate region. This nested configuration allows single molecule detection functionality to be embedded within the standard FET architecture, adding minimal complexity while achieving enhanced sensitivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the sensitivity and precision of biosensors, enabling the detection and sequencing of single molecules with reduced noise and improved manufacturing efficiency, facilitating the creation of high-density sensor arrays for commercial viability.
Implementation Method 1
systems based on field-effect transistors (FETs) appear promising because they can directly translate interactions between target molecules (e.g., biological molecules) and the FET surface into detectable electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
the bridge molecule is coupled to the first contact at the first end and coupled to the second contact at the second end
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic sensors configured to detect single molecule targets and methods of using and manufacturing such electronic sensors are disclosed. A sensor may include a first electrode and a second electrode separated by a sensor gap. The first and second electrodes can be coupled by a sensor complex that can include a biopolymer bridge molecule and a probe. The probe can interact with a target molecule, and interaction of the probe and target molecule can produce a signal suitable to provide detection of the target molecule.