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Two-channel sequential single-molecule measurement
R D Guenard1, L A King, B W Smith
1Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611-7200.
Analytical Chemistry
|June 7, 2011
Summary
This study demonstrates sequential detection of single molecules using near-unity efficiency. This method shows great potential for rapid quantitative analysis of dilute solutions.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Accurate detection of single molecules is crucial for quantitative analysis.
- Traditional methods face challenges in efficiency and speed for dilute solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate sequential detection of single molecules with high measurement efficiency.
- To validate the technique using autocorrelation, photobleaching, and cross-correlation analysis.
- To assess the potential for rapid quantitative analysis of dilute solutions.
Main Methods:
- Detection of IR140 dye molecules in sequential probe volumes within a capillary flow system.
- Utilizing autocorrelation and photobleaching for single-molecule confirmation.
- Employing cross-correlation analysis to verify sequential detection and flow dynamics.
Main Results:
- Achieved near-unity measurement efficiency for sequential single-molecule detection.
- Photobleaching data aligned with bulk photodestruction curves.
- Cross-correlation analysis confirmed sequential detection with temporal delays consistent with parabolic flow.
Conclusions:
- The developed method enables highly efficient sequential detection of single molecules.
- This technique offers significant potential for rapid and accurate quantitative analysis of dilute samples.
