Nanopore device for reversible ion and molecule sensing or migration

摘要

Disclosed are methods and devices for detection of ion migration and binding, utilizing a nanopipette adapted for use in an electrochemical sensing circuit. The nanopipette may be functionalized on its interior bore with metal chelators for binding and sensing metal ions or other specific binding molecules such as boronic acid for binding and sensing glucose. Such a functionalized nanopipette is comprised in an electrical sensor that detects when the nanopipette selectively and reversibly binds ions or small molecules. Also disclosed is a nanoreactor, comprising a nanopipette, for controlling precipitation in aqueous solutions by voltage-directed ion migration, wherein ions may be directed out of the interior bore by a repulsing charge in the bore.

主权项

1. A nanopipette for use in an apparatus detecting analyte in a sample, comprising:
(a) a capillary portion defining an interior bore of the nanopipette leading to a nanopore; (b) said interior bore adapted for containing therein an electrode and an interior solution communicating with an exterior solution through said nanopore; and (c) a coating on an interior surface of said nanopore, comprising
(i) a polyelectrolyte layer bound directly to said interior surface; and(ii) a binding molecule, linked to said polyelectrolyte, specific for binding an analyte which is selected from the group consisting of an ion or a small molecule.