Nanopore Blockade Sensors for Quantitative Analysis Using an Optical Nanopore Assay

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology
• Biosensing

Background:

• Nanopore sensing is a key technique for biomarker analysis.
• Challenges include slow response times and poor selectivity at low analyte concentrations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid and ultrasensitive optical nanopore sensor for quantitative detection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
• To address limitations of conventional nanopore sensors in detecting low-concentration analytes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an optical nanopore blockade sensor with fluorescent polystyrene nanoparticles.
• Employed a 676-nanopore array and wide-field fluorescence microscopy for signal readout.
• Differentiated specific from nonspecific binding events using an applied electric field to remove particles.

Main Results:

• Successfully detected VEGF at sub-picomolar concentrations.
• Achieved quantitative detection in less than 15 minutes.
• Demonstrated improved selectivity by distinguishing specific from nonspecific binding events.

Conclusions:

• The developed optical nanopore sensor offers a rapid and highly sensitive method for biomarker detection.
• This approach significantly enhances the capabilities of nanopore sensing for ultralow concentration analysis.
• The technique shows promise for clinical diagnostics and research applications.