Perforated MOS Nanosensor for Single Biomolecule Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detection and measurement techniques for microscopic particles, such as biomolecules and cells, are complex, expensive, and often require sophisticated methods that are limited to specific applications, failing to provide scalable statistical results for large sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor process-based nanosensor arrangement using CMOS devices and perforated MOS sensors with nanochannels to selectively measure electrical characteristics of particles, enabling the detection and measurement of various-sized particles, including biomolecules, by controlling their passage through fluidic nanochannels and correlating electrical changes with particle properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detection techniques (mass spectroscopy, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, patch clamp, etc.) are used for single biomolecule detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the detection function into two parts: (1) a simple perforated membrane structure that physically isolates single molecules, and (2) standard CMOS sensors that read electrical signals. This segmentation allows complex detection to be achieved through simple, modular components rather than sophisticated equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical/optical detection systems (mass spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy) with an electrical measurement system based on CMOS sensors detecting current changes. This substitution simplifies the device while maintaining detection capability.
2Reliability
If statistical approaches are used to detect particle presence by testing hundreds and thousands of samples, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity and testing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The perforated membrane structure automatically performs the isolation function that would otherwise require complex sample preparation and handling procedures. The structure itself serves the detection purpose, eliminating the need for sophisticated testing equipment and procedures.
3Measurement precision
If single biomolecule detection is achieved through isolation and specialized techniques, then detection specificity is improved, but adaptability to different particle types and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The perforated membrane structure with standardizedå” sizes can detect various types of particles (biomolecules, viruses, cells) by adjusting the membrane parameters. The universal CMOS sensor platform can read electrical signals from different particle types, making the device adaptable to multiple applications without requiring specialized equipment for each particle 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
Enables efficient and scalable detection and measurement of particles, providing statistical results from large numbers of samples with improved sensitivity and specificity, while minimizing external noise and signal attenuation.
Implementation Method 1
measure electrical characteristics of those particles while passing through
Data Source
AI summary
A perforated metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) structure for single biomolecule, virus, or single cell detection is disclosed. The structure includes a nanochannel formed through a sensing region configured to allow a solution containing particles to pass through the perforated MOS sensor. First and second terminals are configured to measure electrical parameters representative of change of electrical characteristics of the solution as the particle passes through the perforated MOS structure.