Encoded multichromophore response for simultaneous label-free detection.
The self-assembly of molecularly precise nanostructures is widely expected to form the basis of future high-speed integrated circuits, but the technologies suitable for such circuits are not well understood. In this work, DNA self-assembly is used to create molecular logic circuits that can selectively identify specific biomolecules in solution by encoding the optical response of near-field coupled arrangements of chromophores. The resulting circuits can detect label-free, femtomole quantities of multiple proteins, DNA oligomers, and small fragments of RNA in solution via ensemble optical measurements. This method, which is capable of creating multiple logic-gate-sensor pairs on a 2 x 80 x 80-nm DNA grid, is a step toward more sophisticated nanoscale logic circuits capable of interfacing computers with biological processes.
Pistol
Constantin
C
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Duke University, 130 Hudson Hall, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
Mao
Vincent
V
Thusu
Viresh
V
Lebeck
Alvin R
AR
Dwyer
Chris
C
D015374:Biosensing Techniques; D004247:DNA / Q000032:analysis; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes / Q000378:metabolism*; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D055620:Optical Phenomena; D011506:Proteins / Q000032:analysis; D012313:RNA / Q000032:analysis; D013194:Staining and Labeling / Q000379:methods*
D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D011506:Proteins; D012313:RNA; D004247:DNA