Molecular Electronics Sensor Array for Parallel Bio-Sample Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bio-nanotechnology lacks efficient methods for manufacturing large-scale molecular electronics sensor arrays that can accurately measure analytes such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, limiting their application in complex system analysis and parallel sensing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A molecular electronics sensor array chip with integrated circuit semiconductor technology, featuring nanoscale source and drain electrodes, a gate electrode, and bridge or probe molecules that self-assemble to connect the electrodes, allowing for high-density sensor pixels with readout capacitors or resistors, transistors, and controlled reset mechanisms, enabling accurate measurement and analysis of bio-samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If large scale sensor arrays are manufactured, then parallel sensing capability and measurement throughput are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is divided into multiple independent sensor pixels, each capable of autonomous sensing operations. Each pixel contains its own readout circuitry, allowing parallel processing of multiple analytes simultaneously while maintaining manufacturing modularity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array employs universal probe molecules that can detect multiple different analytes including DNA, RNA, and proteins. This multi-functionality allows a single large-scale array to perform diverse sensing tasks, improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
2Measurement precision
If nanoscale sensor devices are used, then measurement precision and sensitivity are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor devices utilize self-assembling probe molecules that automatically position themselves on the nanoscale electrodes. This self-assembly process occurs through molecular recognition and spontaneous organization, eliminating the need for complex nanoscale positioning equipment and reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning and alignment methods with molecular self-assembly processes. Instead of using mechanical tools to place nanoscale components with high precision, the system uses chemical and molecular forces to guide spontaneous assembly, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity
3Ease of manufacture
If integrated circuit technology is used, then ease of manufacture and scalability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges molecular electronics sensing elements with conventional integrated circuit readout circuitry into a hybrid system. The molecular sensors provide nanoscale sensing functionality while the integrated circuits provide robust signal processing and data output, combining the advantages of both approaches for easier manufacturing and scalability
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array employs intermediary readout circuitry that bridges the nanoscale molecular sensors and the macroscopic measurement systems. This intermediary layer translates molecular-level signals into electrical signals that can be processed by conventional electronics, facilitating integration while managing device complexity
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
Enables accurate and parallel measurement of bio-samples, supporting applications like DNA sequencing, genotyping, and environmental monitoring, with the potential for portable, hand-held, or implantable devices, providing efficient data processing and storage for integrated reports.
Implementation Method 1
voltages may be used to monitor and/or facilitate a molecular self-assembly process, whereby each bridge and/or probe molecule self-assembles on to each source and drain electrode pair
Implementation Method 2
Sensors are discrete systems that undergo a detectable, recordable change of state in response to a particular class of stimuli
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments of the present disclosure, a molecular electronics sensor array chip comprises: (a) an integrated circuit semiconductor chip; and (b) a plurality of molecular electronic sensor devices disposed thereon, each of said sensor devices comprising: (i) a pair of nanoscale source and drain electrodes separated by a nanogap; (ii) a gate electrode; and (iii) a bridge and/or probe molecule spanning the nanogap and connecting the source and drain electrodes, wherein the molecular electronic sensor devices are organized into an electronically addressable, controllable, and readable array of sensor pixels.