Nanopore Device Sensitivity via Segmented Gate and 3D Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nanopore DNA detection systems face challenges in achieving high sensitivity and rapid measurement speeds for DNA sequencing and detection.
Innovation Solution
A nanopore device with a reduced diameter and thickness of the conductive gate layer, along with a method for fabricating such a device, which includes a micro channel, a cover unit with a nanopore, source/drain electrodes, and a gate electrode, and a signal amplifying circuit, allowing for increased sensitivity and faster analysis of nucleic acid molecules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the diameter of nanopore or thickness of conductive gate layer is reduced to increase sensitivity, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components: a cover unit containing the nanopore and gate electrode, a channel unit with microchannel, and separate source/drain electrodes. This segmentation allows independent optimization of the nanopore structure for sensitivity while simplifying the overall device assembly and manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional planar nanopore structures to a three-dimensional configuration where the nanopore is integrated within a cover unit that sits above the microchannel. This vertical stacking enables reduced nanopore diameter and gate layer thickness without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as components are arranged in multiple dimensions rather than a single plane.
2Productivity
If conventional nanopore structure is used, then device complexity is maintained at acceptable levels, but measurement speed and sensitivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes critical parameters including reducing the nanopore diameter to enhance sensitivity while simultaneously configuring the microchannel dimensions and electrode positions to maintain acceptable measurement speeds. The gate electrode thickness and positioning are also adjusted to improve detection sensitivity without compromising device manufacturability.
3Productivity
If array configuration with multiple nanopores is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs an array of multiple nanopores distributed across the cover unit surface, with each nanopore serving as an independent detection channel. This segmentation enables parallel processing of multiple samples or simultaneous detection of different biomolecules, significantly increasing productivity while maintaining manageable device complexity through standardized modular architecture.
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 device enhances measurement sensitivity and speed by accurately analyzing base sequences of DNA through changes in voltage and current, reducing noise and improving the accuracy of DNA detection and sequencing.
Implementation Method 1
A nanopore DNA detection system detects DNA from a slight change in electric current which occurs when DNA translocates through nanopores
Implementation Method 2
when a bias is applied to the conductive gate layer, target biomolecules exhibiting an electric charge in the sample solution of an electrolyte may translocate through the nanopore
Implementation Method 3
target biomolecules translocating through the nanopore may be identified or DNA sequencing may be performed by measuring an electric current between the source and drain electrodes and measuring a turn-on gate voltage applied to the conductive gate layer
Data Source
AI summary
A nanopore device comprising a channel unit comprising a micro channel defined by a bottom surface and an insulator lateral wall; and a cover unit covering the micro channel, wherein the cover unit comprises a nanopore extending through the cover unit and connected to the micro channel; a first source/drain electrode disposed on an upper surface of the cover unit and adjacent to an inlet of the nanopore; an opening extending through the cover unit and connected to the micro channel; and a second source/drain electrode disposed on the upper surface of the cover unit and adjacent to the opening; as well as a method for fabricating and using the device.