Label-free THz sensing of genetic sequences: towards 'THz biochips'.
THz-wave-based approaches for the label-free characterization of genetic material are described. Time-resolved THz spectroscopic analysis of genetic sequences (polynucleotides) demonstrate a distinct complex refractive index in the THz frequency range as a function of the binding state of the analysed DNA sequences. By monitoring THz signals, one can thus infer the binding state of oligo- and polynucleotides, enabling the label-free determination of the genetic composition of target polynucleotides by sensing their binding to known probe molecules. Here we review integrated THz sensing array developments exhibiting high sensitivity and single-base mutation detection capabilities. Recent achievements using functionalized biosensing arrays of high-Q resonators are illustrated.
Institut für Halbleitertechnik, RWTH Aachen, 52056 Aachen, Germany. haring@iht.rwth-aachen.de
Peter
P
Haring Bolívar
Michael
M
Nagel
Frank
F
Richter
Martin
M
Brucherseifer
Heinrich
H
Kurz
Anja
A
Bosserhoff
Reinhard
R
Büttner
D015374:Biosensing Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D004247:DNA / Q000032:analysis* / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000235:genetics; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008872:Microwaves; D020411:Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D017422:Sequence Analysis, DNA / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D013050:Spectrometry, Fluorescence / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends
D004247:DNA