Advancing Nanoscale Devices based on Solid-State Nanochannels (SSNs) modified with (Bio)Active Building Blocks

ongoing

NanoBiosens seeks to expand the potential of Solid-State Nanochannels (SSNs) in the field of electrochemical sensing and the study of phenomena at nanoscale. SSNs have garnered significant attention among researchers due to their promising applications. Inspired by the sophisticated transport mechanisms found in biological channels in nature, SSNs offer precise control over ion transport. Ion transport across SSNs is controlled by the geometry and physicochemical properties of the surface. Thus, highly selective and sensitive transport relies on controlling the internal chemistry and architecture of the channel. SSNs offer, in addition, new avenues to diverse device with nanofluidic and sensing applications. In this project, we endeavor the creation of SSN-based devices for biosensing while simultaneously delving into fundamental studies of building block behavior in nanoconfinement. To achieve these objectives, I will develop and test a novel dual-signal setup that combines electrochemical and iontronic measurements in SSNs. While pure electrochemical sensing faces challenges related to sensitivity, cost efficiency, and complexity, iontronic sensing enables the adjustment of ion transport properties in SSNs enhancing the performance of the sensor. Leveraging SSNs' exceptional sensitivity, we will pioneer highly sensitive enzyme-based biosensors. The innovative dual-signal sensing mechanism will harvest both the information of EC sensing and the high sensitivity of iontronic sensing. It will offer fundamental studies on building block performance within nanoscale confinement, providing invaluable insights into their behavior. Such studies are crucial for refining the precision and effectiveness of nanoscale architectures and their applications. Thus, NanoBiosens extends beyond immediate impact, seeking to push the boundaries of SSN, exploring novel methods and mechanisms for future advancements and applications.