Local Heating Nanopore for DNA Translocation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling the flow of biomolecules through nanopores are inadequate in terms of precision and control, as biomolecules pass through too quickly for accurate characterization via ionic current measurement, and existing techniques have not demonstrated the desired level of control over translocation velocity.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state nanopore system equipped with a local heating element that selectively heats the nanopore, creating a temperature gradient to alter the conformation and transport of DNA, enhancing electrophoretic mobility and allowing for adjustable thermodynamic forces to modify particle flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If nanopores are used to transport biomolecules, then selective transport and electronic detection are achieved, but biomolecules pass through too quickly for accurate characterization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing temperature as a controllable parameter. By heating the nanopore region to create a temperature gradient, the translocation velocity of biomolecules is modified. The temperature gradient causes thermophoretic effects that slow down DNA translocation, allowing sufficient time for accurate ionic current measurements and characterization while maintaining selective transport capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through alternating electric fields applied during DNA translocation. The electric field direction is periodically reversed, causing the DNA to oscillate back and forth within the nanopore. This periodic motion increases the residence time of biomolecules in the detection region, enabling multiple measurement cycles and significantly improving characterization accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If existing control techniques are used, then some level of flow control is achieved, but the desired precision and control over translocation velocity are not attained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the nanopore system actively controllable through time-varying parameters. The temperature of the nanopore is dynamically adjusted to control translocation velocity, and the electric field direction is dynamically reversed to control DNA motion. This dynamic control allows precise regulation of biomolecule flow characteristics, achieving the desired precision in translocation velocity control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by modifying physical conditions within the nanopore. Temperature is changed to create thermal gradients that affect translocation velocity, and electric field parameters are changed by alternating polarity. These parameter modifications provide precise control over biomolecule flow, overcoming the limitations of static control methods.
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
The local heating mechanism significantly slows down DNA translocation, allowing for precise control over electrophoretic mobility and conformation changes, enabling more accurate characterization and potential applications in DNA sequencing and protein detection.
Implementation Method 1
creating a temperature gradient to alter the conformation and transport of DNA
Implementation Method 2
adjustable thermodynamic forces to modify particle flow
Implementation Method 3
an electric field between the first and second conductors, and wherein the electric field induces an electric force that causes a flow of the plurality of particles through the through-hole
Data Source
AI summary
A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method for generating an electric or pressure difference force that induces a plurality of particles to flow through a through-hole. Independently adjustable heat source in a vicinity of the through-hole induces a thermodynamic force for modifying the flow of the plurality of particles through the through-hole. Additional embodiments are disclosed.