AC Amplifier and System for Nanopore Based DNA Sequencing

In order to realize robust, inexpensive and routine DNA sequencing for medical, forensic, security and defense applications, new approaches must be pursued. One approach is the rapid readout of individual nucleotides as a single strand of DNA is drawn through a nanometer scale aperture. Although progress has been made with nanopore sequencing, some fundamental instrumental and system problems have so far kept the method from realizing its potential. The solution is to develop a system with low inherent noise and an ability to improve current sensitivity without driving the polynucleotide faster. Electronic Bio Sciences is proposing to develop an alternating current (AC) measurement system with the lowest noise achievable today. With an AC measurement system it is possible to drive the polynucleotide through the protein pore at a relatively slow rate while observing the conductance of the protein pore using a high frequency AC drive potential. This proposed system will allow the current system noise and rapid polymer translocation rate limitations to be overcome to allow for a practical nanopore based DNA sequencing system.