New sensor to speed genome sequencing

CHAMPAIGN, Ill., June 8 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists are developing a solid-state genome sequencing sensor that could ultimately perform DNA analysis with a single molecule.

University of Illinois researchers said their nanopore sensor, made by drilling a tiny hole through a thin film of aluminum oxide, could offer tremendous possibilities for personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.

"Solid-state nanopore sensors have shown superior chemical, thermal and mechanical stability over their biological counterparts, and can be fabricated using conventional semiconductor processes," said Professor Rashid Bashir. "The aluminum-oxide nanopore sensors go a step further, exhibiting superior mechanical properties, enhanced noise performance and increased lifetime over their silicon-oxide and silicon-nitride counterparts."

The researchers describe the fabrication and operation of the aluminum-oxide nanopore sensor in a paper accepted for publication in the journal Advanced Materials and now available at the journal's Web site.