Existing sequencing processes require DNA to be copied millions of times and labelled with fluorescent tags. This procedure can require eight days of processing time at a cost of thousands of dollars. The slow and expensive process presents a barrier to screening patients’ genomes and inhibits the rise of personalized medicine.

Dr. Marija Drndic’s team has focused on DNA sequencing using solid state nanopores. DNA bases pass through a small hole in a thin graphene or silicon membrane, and the change in electrical conductance across the pore can be measured and correlated to the DNA base sequence. The technology portfolio in this area includes Transmission Electron Beam Lithography techniques to efficiently and effectively create thin membranes for nanopore devices, as well as the design of the devices themselves. 

Complete nanopore devices fabricated using these techniques have been used to monitor and detect DNA translocation through the pores. Additional applications include detecting and identifying RNA molecules, proteins, and other biomolecules using the nanopore technique.

• High speed and low cost DNA sequencing
• Improved performance as compared to protein membrane devices