Microtubule-based gold nanowires and nanowire arrays

Biological structures are attractive as templates to form nanoscale architectures for electronics because of their dimensions and the ability to interact with inorganic materials. In this study, we report the fabrication and electrical properties of microtubule (MT)-templated Au nanowires, and methods for assembling Au nanowire arrays based on these templates. The adsorption of MTs on silicon substrates is an effective means for preserving the conformation of the MT and provides a convenient platform for electrical measurements. To improve the metallization of MTs, a photochemical route for gold reduction is adapted, which leads to continuous coverage. The conductivity values measured on micrometer-long nanowires are similar to those reported for other biotemplated gold nanowires. A protocol for fabricating arrays of MT-templated gold nanowires is demonstrated.