Solid-state nanopore localization by controlled breakdown of selectively thinned membranes.

We demonstrate precise positioning of nanopores fabricated by controlled breakdown (CBD) on solid-state membranes by spatially varying the electric field strength with localized membrane thinning. We show 100 × 100 nm precision in standard SiN membranes (30-100 nm thick) after selective thinning by as little as 25% with a helium ion beam. Control over nanopore position is achieved through the strong dependence of the electric field-driven CBD mechanism on membrane thickness.

Solid-state nanopores and nanopore arrays optimized for optical detection.

While conventional solid-state nanopore measurements utilize ionic current, there is a growing interest in alternative sensing paradigms, including optical detection. However, a limiting factor in the application of optical schemes in particular is the inherent background fluorescence created by the solid-state membrane itself, which can interfere with the desired signal and place restrictions on the fluorophores that can be employed. An ideal device would incorporate a localized reduction in membrane fluorescence using a method that can be integrated easily with the nanopore fabrication process.

Selective detection and quantification of modified DNA with solid-state nanopores.

We demonstrate a solid-state nanopore assay for the unambiguous discrimination and quantification of modified DNA. Individual streptavidin proteins are employed as high-affinity tags for DNA containing a single biotin moiety. We establish that the rate of translocation events corresponds directly to relative concentration of protein-DNA complexes and use the selectivity of our approach to quantify modified oligonucleotides from among a background of unmodified DNA in solution.

Membrane thickness dependence of nanopore formation with a focused helium ion beam.

Solid-state nanopores are emerging as a valuable tool for the detection and characterization of individual biomolecules. Central to their success is the realization of fabrication strategies that are both rapid and flexible in their ability to achieve diverse device dimensions. In this paper, we demonstrate the membrane thickness dependence of solid-state nanopore formation with a focused helium ion beam.

Interpreting the conductance blockades of DNA translocations through solid-state nanopores.

Solid-state nanopore electrical signatures can be convoluted and are thus challenging to interpret. In order to better understand the origin of these conductance changes, we investigate the translocation of DNA through small, thin pores over a range of voltage. We observe multiple, discrete populations of conductance blockades that vary with applied voltage.