Multifunctional DNA-based biomemory device consisting of ssDNA/Cu heterolayers

In the present study, we developed a novel DNA-based biomemory device that was comprised of ssDNA/Cu heterolayers on Au electrodes. As a conducting material, a thiol-modified single strand DNA (26 bp) was designed and immobilized on the Au electrode without the need for any linker material. Cu(2+) ions, which acted as the active site, were then chemically absorbed on the external structure of ssDNA through electrostatic interactions. The presence of the fabricated ssDNA/Cu heterolayer was confirmed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry experiments were carried out to investigate the redox properties of ssDNA/Cu hybrids to obtain the oxidation and reduction potential. Based on measured oxidation and reduction potential, a ROM-type, 3-state type, and WORM type DNA memory functions were demonstrated by chronoamperometry (CA) and open circuit potential amperometry (OCPA). This proposed device acts and operates the memory function very well. In the near future, DNA based biomemory device in this study could provide the alternative to the inorganic electronic device when molecular scaled immobilization control and signal measurement are achieved.