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Single Nanochannel-Aptamer-Based Biosensor for Ultrasensitive and Selective Cocaine Detection
Jian Wang1, Jue Hou2, Huacheng Zhang2
1College of Materials and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology , Chengdu 610059, People's Republic of China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|December 22, 2017
Summary
This study introduces a highly sensitive cocaine sensor using a single nanochannel and DNA aptamers. This novel biosensor achieves ultrasensitive detection of cocaine down to 1 nM, aiding drug testing and early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Ultrasensitive and selective molecular detection is crucial for early diagnosis and drug testing.
- Current methods face challenges in achieving nano or sub-nanomolar detection limits for illicit substances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-sensitivity cocaine sensor utilizing a single nanochannel coupled with DNA aptamers.
- To demonstrate the sensor's capability for ultrasensitive and selective cocaine detection.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a single nanochannel device.
- Immobilization of DNA aptamers onto the nanochannel surface for cocaine recognition.
- Monitoring changes in ionic current through the nanochannel in response to cocaine binding.
Main Results:
- The single nanochannel-aptamer biosensor exhibited excellent sensitivity and selectivity for cocaine.
- A linear relationship was observed between cocaine concentration (1 nM to 10 μM) and ionic current output.
- The sensor achieved a detection limit as low as 1 nM for cocaine.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanochannel-aptamer biosensor offers a promising platform for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of cocaine.
- This approach provides a new avenue for developing biosensors for various illicit drugs.
- The technology holds potential for applications in drug testing and early disease diagnosis.
