Electrically facilitated translocation of protein through solid nanopore

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Nanopores are effective single-molecule sensors for biopolymers.
• Previous studies focused on smaller nanopores for detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize protein translocation through a larger nanopore (60 nm diameter).
• To investigate the effect of applied voltage on protein capture and translocation dynamics.
• To demonstrate the feasibility and specificity of large nanopores for protein sensing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 60 nm diameter nanopore for protein translocation experiments.
• Applied a series of voltages to drive protein movement.
• Analyzed current blockage events to characterize translocation.

Main Results:

• A higher threshold voltage was needed for protein entry into the large nanopore.
• Protein capture frequency increased significantly with applied voltage.
• Simultaneous translocation of multiple proteins was observed at high voltages.
• Adsorption/desorption effects were reduced, but proteins unfolded at high electric forces.

Conclusions:

• Large nanopores exhibit distinct protein translocation profiles compared to small nanopores.
• The distinct geometry of large nanopores is feasible and specific for protein sensing.
• This work expands the application of nanopore devices for biopolymer analysis.