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Credit: Osaka University
Osaka, Japan – Scientists from the Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research at Osaka University made nanopores in silicon dioxide, which was only 300 nm, in diameter surrounded by electrons. These nanopores could prevent particles from entering directly by applying a voltage, which could allow the development of sensors that detect very small concentrations of target molecules, which as well as next-generation DNA sequencing technology.
Nanopores are small holes that are wide enough for only one molecule or one part to pass through. The movement of nanoparticles through these holes is usually detected as an electrical signal, making them a promising platform for novel single-component sensors. However, controlling the movement of the particles has been a challenge so far.
Scientists at Osaka University used integrated nanoelectromechanical systems technology to make solid-state nanopores, just 300 nm wide, with round platinum gate electrodes around the openings that prevent nanoparticles from passing through. This is accomplished by selecting the right voltage that draws ions into the solution to create an antistatic current that impedes the entry of the nanoparticle.
“One-nanoparticle movements could be controlled through the voltage applied to the surrounding gate electricity, when we modulate the electroosmotic current through a surface electric potential,” the first author says Makusu Tsutsui says. After the grip is locked at the nanopore opening, a subtle force imbalance between the electrophoretic and hydrodynamic gravity can be created. At that point, the particles can be pulled in slowly, which can allow long polymers, such as DNA, to be fused at the right speed to put them in order.
“Not only can the current method enable better error of submicrometer objects, such as viruses, but it also provides a means for structural analysis of protein,” lead author Tomoji Kawai says. Although nanopores have already been used to verify the identity of different target molecules based on the generated current, the technology revealed in this project could allow a broader study to be conducted. proved in this way. For example, small molecules, such as proteins and micro-RNA fragments that need to be extracted at a controlled speed, are also found.
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The article, “Field effect control on motion dynamics in gate-gate nanopores,” was published in Communication materials at DOI: https: /
About Osaka University
Osaka University was founded in 1931 as one of the seven imperial universities in Japan and is now one of the leading comprehensive universities in Japan with a broad regulatory spectrum. This strength accompanies a single drive for innovation that extends through the scientific process, from basic research to the creation of applied technology with positive economic impacts. The commitment to innovation has been recognized in Japan and around the world, being named the most innovative university in Japan in 2015 (Reuters 2015 Top 100) and one of the centers most innovative in the world in 2017 (Universities of Innovation and Innovation Nature Index 2017). Now, Osaka University is fulfilling its role as a Designated National University Corporation selected by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, Science and Technology to contribute to innovation for human welfare, sustainable development of society and social transformation.
Website: https: /
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