A Novel Approach for Single Molecule Detection Based on an Artificial Nanobiostructure

Mahdi Rahaie Jahromi

PhD Student of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Tehran

Abstract

Development of nucleic acid-based detection systems is the main focus of many research groups and high technology companies. The enormous work done in this field is particularly due to the broad versatility and variety of these sensing devices. From optical to electrical systems, from label dependent to label-free approaches, from single to multi-analyte and array formats, this wide range of possibilities makes the research field very diversified and competitive.  However, the start point for arriving into single molecule detection world for biomolecule diagnostics is to construct suitable nanostructure as a base. In this field, DNA is a commonly used linker molecule to direct the assembly of the nanoscale building blocks because of its unique recognition capabilities, mechanical rigidity, and physicochemical stability. In this study, it will be mentioned the methods and requirements for single molecule detection and also, a practical novel approach that has been used for generating the related nanobiostructure for this purpose. The method will be described herein, provides a new tool for making controlled designed nanostructure and offers more perspectives in the nanomanipulation of biomolecules for diagnostics purposes.

Keywords: single molecule detection, nanobiostructure

·        corresponding author, email: mrahaie@ut.ac.ir, Tel: +98-9123027502 fax: +98-261-2227605