Nanotube Membrane Based Biosensors

Abstract

We review highly sensitive detection based on electrochemical methods. These methods are based on monodisperse gold and alumina nanotubule membranes with inside diameter approaching molecular dimensions. The analyte species can be detected by measuring a change in trans-membrane current when the analyte is added to the nanotubule-based cell. The second method entails the use of a concentration change based on the nanotubule membrane. Biomemtic ion-gated channels micropore and nanotubule membrane sensors are also reviewed. These synthetic ion channels can be switched from an “off” state to an “on” state in response to an external chemical stimulus. Using these methods, we have achieved detection limits as low as 10 pM. Potential applications for these biosensors are in fields such as bioanalytical, biomedical, pharmaceutical and drug discovery.