Molecular electronic chip. Free Technical Library News

NEWS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, NOVELTY IN ELECTRONICS
Free technical library / timeline

Molecular electronic chip

03.02.2022

Roswell Biotechnologies announced the completion of the development and successful testing of a new generation biosensor chip. The sensor is able to detect single molecules, enzyme activity, and even monitor the process of DNA synthesis in real time. This possibility not only simplifies the decoding of the biomaterial, but also opens the way to devices for recording data on DNA carriers.

Scientists have been developing biosensor chips for a long time, but the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly pushed the search for solutions. Roswell Biotechnologies, together with colleagues from the Belgian center Imec, have gone from a project to a ready-made solution in less than two years. The advanced 16-pixel silicon-based sensor is capable of operating at 1000 frames per second, enabling instant diagnosis of viruses, drugs, DNA sequencing, protein analysis, and more that used to cost a lot of time and money.

According to the developers, they have created the first ever molecular sensor, which paves the way for the launch of Moore's law in the field of biodetection. The array can be scaled up to new values of density and detection accuracy, increasing the speed and quality of biomaterial studies. The elementary detection device is a special molecule in each pixel of the sensor, which captures a biomaterial sample and makes it possible to accurately determine its composition.

Roswell's proposed platform consists of a programmable semiconductor chip with a scalable sensor array architecture. The chip also includes multichannel ADCs for converting information into digital form for its further analysis by machine learning tools. The elementary pixel of the sensor consists of two nanoelectrodes with a gap of 20 nm. To assess the biomaterial, a molecular thread of active biological material, such as a synthetic alpha-helical protein, is suspended between the gaps. Such a protein captures a biomaterial sample for further testing.

An electric current is passed through the electrodes and the molecular thread. The current strength will depend on the resistance of the circuit and will accurately indicate the target biomaterial captured by the sensor. The accuracy of material determination is so high that the technology can be used as a reader for writing data on DNA. Sensor pixels can carry built-in DNA polymerase enzymes, which allows direct electrical observation of the action of this enzyme as it copies a DNA fragment element by element. Modern diagnostics does not allow this, working with DNA only through indirect measurements. This has the potential to revolutionize medicine and biological research in many related areas: in paleontology, forensics, agriculture, and much more.

<< Back: Microphones for karaoke TeslaMic 03.02.2022

>> Forward: Artificial muscle based on natural proteins 02.02.2022

Latest news of science and technology, new electronics:

Artificial leather for touch emulation 15.04.2024

In a modern technology world where distance is becoming increasingly commonplace, maintaining connection and a sense of closeness is important. Recent developments in artificial skin by German scientists from Saarland University represent a new era in virtual interactions. German researchers from Saarland University have developed ultra-thin films that can transmit the sensation of touch over a distance. This cutting-edge technology provides new opportunities for virtual communication, especially for those who find themselves far from their loved ones. The ultra-thin films developed by the researchers, just 50 micrometers thick, can be integrated into textiles and worn like a second skin. These films act as sensors that recognize tactile signals from mom or dad, and as actuators that transmit these movements to the baby. Parents' touch to the fabric activates sensors that react to pressure and deform the ultra-thin film. This ... >>

Petgugu Global cat litter 15.04.2024

Taking care of pets can often be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping your home clean. A new interesting solution from the Petgugu Global startup has been presented, which will make life easier for cat owners and help them keep their home perfectly clean and tidy. Startup Petgugu Global has unveiled a unique cat toilet that can automatically flush feces, keeping your home clean and fresh. This innovative device is equipped with various smart sensors that monitor your pet's toilet activity and activate to automatically clean after use. The device connects to the sewer system and ensures efficient waste removal without the need for intervention from the owner. Additionally, the toilet has a large flushable storage capacity, making it ideal for multi-cat households. The Petgugu cat litter bowl is designed for use with water-soluble litters and offers a range of additional ... >>

The attractiveness of caring men 14.04.2024

The stereotype that women prefer "bad boys" has long been widespread. However, recent research conducted by British scientists from Monash University offers a new perspective on this issue. They looked at how women responded to men's emotional responsibility and willingness to help others. The study's findings could change our understanding of what makes men attractive to women. A study conducted by scientists from Monash University leads to new findings about men's attractiveness to women. In the experiment, women were shown photographs of men with brief stories about their behavior in various situations, including their reaction to an encounter with a homeless person. Some of the men ignored the homeless man, while others helped him, such as buying him food. A study found that men who showed empathy and kindness were more attractive to women compared to men who showed empathy and kindness. ... >>

Electronic helmet for truck drivers 14.04.2024

Road safety, especially for drivers of heavy construction equipment, is a top priority for engineers and scientists. In light of this, the German Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Strength and System Reliability has introduced a new product - an electronic helmet, which is designed to protect drivers from serious injury when driving construction vehicles. A new electronic helmet developed by a team of engineers from the Fraunhofer Institute opens up new perspectives for the safety of truck and construction equipment drivers. The device is capable of monitoring the level of shaking in the car cabin and warning the driver of possible danger. The basis of the helmet's operation is a built-in piezoelectric sensor, which generates electricity during physical deformation. This mechanism allows the device to respond to intense vibrations typical of construction equipment. When the level of deformation exceeds safe values, an alarm system is activated on the helmet, ... >>

Antivitamins instead of antibiotics 13.04.2024

The problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics is becoming increasingly serious, posing a threat to the effective treatment of infections. In light of this, researchers are looking for new ways to combat superbugs. One of the promising directions is the use of antivitamins that can have an antibacterial effect. Antivitamins, although known as the opposite of vitamins, have proven to be a promising tool in the fight against bacterial antibiotic resistance. A study conducted by scientists from the University of Göttingen in Germany confirmed their potential in creating new drugs to combat dangerous infections. With the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs, there is a need to find alternative treatments. Antivitamins are molecules similar to vitamins, but capable of inhibiting bacterial activity without harm to the human body. At the moment, science knows only three antivitamins: rose ... >>

Random news from the Archive

Cocoa with flavonoids makes people smarter 18.10.2023

Increasing the consumption of flavonoids, which are part of cocoa beans, has a positive effect on human cognitive functions. American scientists came to this conclusion.

Cocoa beans contain many beneficial substances, including flavonoids. Studies have shown that increasing the concentration of these substances can speed up human thought processes even with high concentrations of carbon dioxide in the air.

Flavonoids are substances present in plants that play an important role in the human body. They have antioxidant activity, strengthen blood vessels, slow down blood clotting and improve the elasticity of red blood cells. Flavanols, a subgroup of flavonoids, are present in cocoa, grapes, apples, tea, berries and other foods. Although they are known to have beneficial effects on heart and vascular health, their effects on the brain require more research.

This scientific study was the first to confirm the link between flavonoid consumption and improved cognitive performance. As part of the work, scientists used a drink made from cocoa beans as a source of these compounds. However, the researchers note that the results also apply to other foods, such as fruits and green tea.

In the study, 18 healthy men aged 18 to 40 underwent a standard cerebral blood flow test. Under conditions of hypercapnia caused by inhaling air containing high levels of carbon dioxide, participants were given cognitive tests to assess brain activity.

The results showed that participants who consumed the flavanol-enriched drink had higher blood oxygen levels during hypercapnia. The concentration of oxygen in brain tissue increased three times compared to a regular drink. Also, after consuming cocoa with flavonoids, participants completed cognitive tests 11% faster.

See full Archive of science and technology news, new electronics

All languages of this page

Home page | Library | Articles | Website map | Site Reviews