A combined nanocolloid-nanochannel platform for sensitive biomolecular detection

Here we discuss the fundamental mechanisms behind which nanocolloids/biomolecules trapped at the entrance can produce the largest change in the conductance/impedance signature. Nanocolloids trapped at the depleted side of a fluidic nanoslot entrance are shown to sensitively regulate DC ion transport through the nanoslot, such that a second limiting-overlimiting transition occurs in its nonlinear current-voltage characteristics. The same nanoslot is shown to be able to directly quantify DNA concentration with nano-molar sensitivity, however, lacking of any specificity. Hence, suggesting a combination of these two platforms (nanocolloids functionalized with specific molecular probes and a nanochannel) for extremely specific, sensitive and non-optical biomolecular detection.