SGER: Electronic Detection of Protein Binding via Aptamer Functionalized Field-Effect Detectors

Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

0243796 Scott Manalis Massachusetts Institute of Technology Electric Detection of Protein Binding via Aptamer Functionalized Field-Effect Detectors Recently, highly scalable electronic detection systems for DNA have been developed based on the molecule's intrinsic charge. Micrometer-scale field effect sensors, constructed using standard silicon microtechnology, were used to detect nanomolar DNA concentrations within minutes and to distinguish between oligonucleotides differing by a single base. Potential of tailor-made DNA and RNA aptamers for specifically capturing target proteins on the surface of a silicon field-effect sensor is being investigated under this project. In collaboration with University of Texas at Austin, aptamers are designed to translate the aptamer-target complex into a modulation of surface charge at the sensor surface. In addition, in collaboration with Molecular Sciences Institute, recognition molecules are being coupled to the sensor surface to electronically detect simulated biological agents.