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Microfluidic Sample Compartmentalization for Biomolecular Concentration Quantification Using a Nanopore Sensor
Morteza Safari1, Juliana Chawich2, Ali Najafi Sohi2
1Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Small Methods
|August 12, 2026
Summary
A novel microfluidic device enables direct counting of biomolecules using nanopore sensors. This method eliminates the need for capture rate calibration, improving accuracy for DNA and protein quantification.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biophysics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Accurate biomolecule concentration determination is crucial for diagnostics.
- Solid-state nanopores (ssNPs) offer label-free, single-molecule detection.
- Current ssNP quantification relies on variable capture rates, limiting accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for direct biomolecule quantification using nanopore sensors.
- To overcome the limitations of capture rate variability in ssNP-based measurements.
- To enable accurate quantification without sensor calibration.
Main Methods:
- Introduction of a microfluidic device with an integrated nanopore sensor (microtrap).
- Leveraging sample compartmentalization in pL volumes for direct molecule counting.
- Demonstration using double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and green fluorescent protein (GFP).
Main Results:
- Direct quantification of pico- to nanomolar concentrations of dsDNA and GFP achieved in minutes.
- Elimination of the need for nanopore sensor capture rate calibration.
- Demonstrated ability to preconcentrate samples by tuning microtrap volume, reducing measurement time and detection limits.
Conclusions:
- The microtrap device provides a robust platform for accurate, label-free biomolecule quantification.
- This approach simplifies nanopore-based sensing by removing the need for capture rate calibration.
- The technology has potential for improved diagnostic applications and sensitive biomolecular analysis.
