Nanoscale sensors for intracellular and other applications

摘要

The present invention generally relates to nanoscale wires for use in sensors and other applications. In various embodiments, a probe comprising a nanotube (or other nanoscale wire) is provided that can be directly inserted into a cell to determine a property of the cell, e.g., an electrical property. In some cases, only the tip of the nanoscale wire is inserted into the cell; this tip may be very small relative to the cell, allowing for very precise study. In some aspects, the tip of the probe is held by a holding member positioned on a substrate, e.g., at an angle, which makes it easier for the probe to be inserted into the cell. The nanoscale wire may also be connected to electrodes and/or form part of a transistor, such that a property of the nanoscale wire, and thus of the cell, may be determined. Such probes may also be useful for studying other samples besides cells. Other aspects of the invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such probes, kits involving such probes, devices involving such probes, or the like.

主权项

1. An article, comprising:
a non-carbon nanotube, having an interior, positioned such that the interior of the nanotube is in fluidic communication with a cell interior, and a holding member supporting at least a portion of the non-carbon nanotube, wherein the holding member supports only one end of the non-carbon nanotube, wherein at least a portion of the non-carbon nanotube defines a gate of a field effect transistor.