FET Biomolecule Detection via Transition Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transistor-based biomolecule detectors, such as FET-based detectors, face challenges in efficiently identifying biomolecules due to limitations in accurately measuring biological reactions and differentiating between various biomolecules using electric signals.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a field effect transistor (FET) detector where a sample containing a biomolecule is heated to elevate its temperature, and the transition temperature at which the electric current variation is maximum is measured and used to identify the biomolecule, allowing for differentiation between different biomolecules based on unique transition temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a transistor-based detector measures biological reactions using electric signals, then the detection can be quickly processed and easily fabricated using semiconductor processes, but the ability to accurately differentiate between various biomolecules is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct electric signal detection to transition temperature detection. By measuring the transition temperature (melting temperature) of biomolecules, which is a thermal parameter, the system achieves accurate differentiation between various biomolecules while maintaining compatibility with FET-based detection platforms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temperature as an intermediary parameter between the biomolecule and the FET detector. The FET detects changes in transition temperature indirectly through its sensitivity to thermal effects, enabling accurate biomolecule identification without direct thermal measurement
2Device complexity
If the FET detector uses standard electric signal measurement, then the device structure remains simple, but the precision in identifying specific biomolecules among multiple types is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from electrical characteristics to transition temperature characteristics. This allows the use of a relatively simple FET structure while achieving high precision in biomolecule identification by measuring the characteristic transition temperature of each biomolecule type
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 enables efficient and accurate identification of biomolecules by utilizing the FET detector's ability to measure and differentiate transition temperatures, effectively distinguishing between various biomolecules, even when multiple types are present in a single sample.
Implementation Method 1
measuring electric current flowing through a channel formed between a source region and a drain region in the FET
Implementation Method 2
heating a sample containing a biomolecule loaded in the detector to thereby elevate the temperature of the sample
Implementation Method 3
obtaining a transition temperature that is the temperature when a current variation is maximum from data measured in the step (b)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for identifying a biomolecule using a biomolecule detector having a field effect transistor (FET) is provided. The method comprises the steps of (a) heating a sample containing a biomolecule loaded in the detector to thereby elevate the temperature of the sample; (b) measuring electric current flowing through a channel formed between a source region and a drain region in the FET while raising the temperature in the step (a); (c) obtaining a transition temperature that is the temperature at maximum point of current variation from data measured in the step (b); and (d) identifying the biomolecule using the transition temperature obtained in the step (c).