(Invited) Nanosurface Fluidic Devices for Electrochemical Sensing and Biosensing

Abstract

Diagnostics of pathogenic and genetic disease (such as cancer) at the point of need, in particular at early-stage, requires dynamic manipulation and concentration of a small number of target molecules at individual single-molecule level, which currently limit microfluidic technologies. In my lab, we focus on engineering of new approaches in lab-on-chip technology via synergistically combining nanostructured materials with fluidic sample delivery systems to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of the detection. Nanostructured materials boost the sensor resolution and show higher biochemical sensitivity and selectivity by significant amplification of the detection sites. We investigate 1) fabrication of novel nanostructured platforms based on 3D materials such as gold and 2D materials such as graphene and molybdenum disulfide, 2) integration of nanostructures with fluid sample delivery and biological assays (based on DNA/antibody) and 3) implementation of the device for detection of small molecules, pathogenic disease, and cancer genomics. In this regard, we address fundamental questions including: optimal interface of nanostructures with fluidic devices; target isolation, preparation and concentration in fluidic devices. We have successfully implemented the nanosurface fluidic devices for rapid and quantitative detection of bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), electrochemical detection of small molecules such as Dopamine and optical detection of extracellular vesicles (EVs).