Nano-sensor Array Impedance Detection Nanoneedle Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biosensors face challenges in sensitivity and real-time monitoring due to low signal-to-noise ratios and the need for fluorophores in optical detection methods, while electrical detection methods are less sensitive and require complex fabrication processes.
Innovation Solution
A nano-sensor array with horizontal nano-sensors, each comprising a first and second nanoneedle separated by a dielectric, allows for impedance detection without labels, enabling high sensitivity and simultaneous testing of large sample areas with reduced reagent usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical detection methods are used, then sensitivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to requirement of fluorophores and optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection methods with electrical impedance detection. Instead of using fluorophores and optical components to detect target particles, the invention uses nanoneedle electrodes that measure electrical impedance changes when target particles bind to probes on the sensor surface, thereby substituting a complex optical system with a simpler electrical measurement system while maintaining high sensitivity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the requirement for fluorophores and complex optical detection systems by implementing a label-free electrical impedance detection method. The detection system only requires simple electrical components and nanoneedle electrodes, removing the need for fluorescent labeling and sophisticated optical instrumentation
2Device complexity
If electrical detection methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but sensitivity deteriorates due to low signal-to-noise ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional planar electrode geometries to vertically oriented nanoneedle electrodes. This dimensional change creates a three-dimensional electric field distribution that significantly enhances the interaction volume with target particles in the sample, thereby amplifying the impedance signal and improving sensitivity while maintaining the simplicity of electrical detection
Solution Approach 2:
The invention concentrates the detection function at the sharp tips of the nanoneedles, where the electric field is most intense and localized. This local concentration of detection capability at the nanoscale interface between electrode and sample maximizes the signal response to target particle binding events, overcoming the low signal-to-noise ratio problem of conventional electrical sensors
3Measurement precision
If conventional biosensor methods are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases due to multi-step processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a single integrated nanoneedle sensor platform. The nanoneedle electrodes simultaneously serve as probe support, detection element, and signal transducer, eliminating the need for separate labeling, incubation, and detection steps required by conventional methods, thereby achieving rapid accurate detection in a single operation
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 nano-sensor array achieves high sensitivity in detecting target particles at low concentrations without the need for fluorophores, facilitating rapid and cost-effective detection with integrated impedance detection circuitry.
Implementation Method 1
A detection circuit is coupled to a second end of each of said nanoneedles. The detection circuit is configured and arranged to detect a change of impedance between the first and second nanoneedles of each nano-sensor
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method is provided for the manufacture of a nano-sensor array. A base having a sensing region is provided along with a plurality of nano-sensors. Each of the plurality of nano-sensors is formed by: forming a first nanoneedle along a surface of the base, forming a dielectric on the first nanoneedle, and forming a second nanoneedle on the dielectric layer. The first nanoneedle of each sensor has a first end adjacent to the sensing region of the base. The second nanoneedle is separated from the first nanoneedle by the dielectric and has a first end adjacent the first end of the first nanoneedle. The base is provided with a fluidic channel. The plurality of nano-sensors and the fluidic channel are configured and arranged with the first ends proximate the fluidic channel to facilitate sensing of targeted matter in the fluidic channel.