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Aligned deposition and electrical measurements on single DNA molecules
Gennady Eidelshtein1, Alexander Kotlyar, Mohtadin Hashemi
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, George S Wise Faculty of Life Sciences and The Center of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
Nanotechnology
|November 6, 2015
Summary
This study presents a novel method for aligning double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecules on surfaces using avidin-DNA complexes. This technique enables precise DNA deposition for potential electronic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Controlled deposition of individual DNA molecules is crucial for nanoscale electronic devices.
- Existing methods often lack precision in molecular alignment and surface attachment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a reliable method for aligning double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecules on various substrates.
- To investigate the electrical properties of deposited DNA molecules.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of avidin-biotinylated dsDNA complexes.
- Deposition on mica, silicon, and micro/nanofabricated circuits using directional gas flow.
- Electrical characterization of deposited DNA, including current-voltage (IV) measurements and humidity dependence.
Main Results:
- Achieved reliable deposition and perfect alignment of individual dsDNA molecules.
- Demonstrated strong avidin-DNA complex anchoring to substrates.
- Observed linear IV-characteristics and exponential humidity dependence in deposited DNA molecules.
Conclusions:
- The developed technique offers precise control over DNA molecule alignment and deposition.
- Avidin-DNA complexes show promise for creating DNA-based electronic components.
- The electrical properties suggest potential for humidity sensing applications.
