Complementary detection of prostate-specific antigen using In2O3 nanowires and carbon nanotubes

We report complementary detection of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) using n-type In2O3 nanowires and p-type carbon nanotubes. Our innovation involves developing an approach to covalently attach antibodies to In2O3 NW surfaces via the onsite surface synthesis of phosphonic acid-succinylimide ester. Electronic measurements under dry conditions revealed complementary response for In2O3 NW and SWNT devices after the binding of PSA. Real-time detection in solution has also been demonstrated for PSA down to 5 ng/mL, a benchmark concentration significant for clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer, which is the most frequently diagnosed cancer.