Convective flow effects on DNA biosensors

Sub-wavelength nanofluidics in photonic crystal sensors

We introduce a novel sensor scheme combining nano-photonics and nano-fluidics on a single platform through the use of free-standing photonic crystals. By harnessing nano-scale openings, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate that both fluidics and light can be manipulated at sub-wavelength scales. Compared to the conventional fluidic channels, we actively steer the convective flow through the nanohole openings for effective delivery of the analytes to the sensor surface. We apply our method to detect refractive index changes in aqueous solutions. Bulk measurements indicate that active delivery of the convective flow results in better sensitivities. The sensitivity of the sensor reaches 510 nm/RIU for resonance located around 850 nm with a line-width of approximately 10 nm in solution. Experimental results are matched very well with numerical simulations. We also show that cross-polarization measurements can be employed to further improve the detection limit by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio.

Real-time DNA microarrays: reality check

DNA microarrays are plagued with inconsistent quantifications and false-positive results. Using established mechanisms of surface reactions, we argue that these problems are inherent to the current technology. In particular, the problem of multiplex non-equilibrium reactions cannot be resolved within the framework of the existing paradigm. We discuss the advantages and limitations of changing the paradigm to real-time data acquisition similar to real-time PCR methodology. Our analysis suggests that the fundamental problem of multiplex reactions is not resolved by the real-time approach itself. However, by introducing new detection chemistries and analysis approaches, it is possible to extract target-specific quantitative information from real-time microarray data. The possible scope of applications for real-time microarrays is discussed.

Kinetics of multiplex hybridization: mechanisms and implications

Quantitative analysis of DNA microarray data is complicated by uncertainties inherent to the experimental setup. Using computer simulations and real-time experimental results, we have previously demonstrated effects of multiplex reactions on a single sensing zone of an array, which may be a leading factor in erroneous interpretation of experimental data. We suggest here that a simplified three-component kinetic model may present a sufficient approximation to describe the general case of DNA sensing in a complex sample milieu. We show that, by analyzing the real-time hybridization kinetics of a nontarget species, we can perform quantitative analysis of unlabeled targets of interest within a broad dynamic range of concentrations.