Nanopore SERS for DNA identification and sequencing.

DNA identification and genome sequencing has become increasingly important in biological and diagnostic research. In this project, we investigate a novel method allowing direct identification of single molecules, including individual DNA bases. It combines the strengths of two powerful technologies: surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and nanopore fluidics. It is based on a deep-subwavelength plasmonic nanopore. Due to its plasmonic properties, a highly localized and strong field enhancement is realized in the pore, enabling single molecule sensitivity for SERS, while its small size mechanically confines the single molecules inside the pore. When DNA is translocating through the nanopore, in principle the Raman spectra of adjacent bases can be recorded one by one. However, there are still many challenges. Both the integration time of each Raman spectrum and the DNA translocation speed should be at the millisecond level. We will perform a profound investigation of novel plasmonic nanostructures to further enhance the Raman signal and localized optical forces to control DNA translocation, and investigate advanced fabrication schemes to match these challenges. The final goal of this project is to identify a specific base from DNA directly.

Keywords:Plasmonics, Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy, Nanopore, Fluidics, Molecular identification, Genome sequencing

Disciplines:Other engineering and technology