Molecular Movement Steps Up DNA Research

April 26, 2004
The chance to unravel the mysteries shrouding DNA was the seed that sprouted a novel microchip design. Eric Simone, a senior biomedical engineering major at Johns Hopkins University, fabricated and tested a chip that moves and isolates DNA and protein...

The chance to unravel the mysteries shrouding DNA was the seed that sprouted a novel microchip design. Eric Simone, a senior biomedical engineering major at Johns Hopkins University, fabricated and tested a chip that moves and isolates DNA and protein molecules. The chip takes advantage of the natural negative charge possessed by DNA or a surface charge on the molecules. Researchers can place a drop of liquid containing DNA on the chip, which is connected to a power source. An electric field then guides the molecules to a designated area, where they can be analyzed under a microscope.

By linking this chip with analysis equipment, doctors eventually will be able to identify medical ailments, monitor patient health, and detect viruses and other biohazards before they spread. Simone worked under the direction of assistant professor Jeff Tza-Huei Wang of the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Previously, Wang produced a biosensor chip with electrodes embedded in a straight line. Simone's chip instead uses a circular electrode design that performs more effectively in certain bio-analytical applications. Each wire on the chip is only one-fifth the diameter of a human hair.

For details, go to www.jhu.edu.

See associated figure.

Sponsored Recommendations

Highly Integrated 20A Digital Power Module for High Current Applications

March 20, 2024
Renesas latest power module delivers the highest efficiency (up to 94% peak) and fast time-to-market solution in an extremely small footprint. The RRM12120 is ideal for space...

Empowering Innovation: Your Power Partner for Tomorrow's Challenges

March 20, 2024
Discover how innovation, quality, and reliability are embedded into every aspect of Renesas' power products.

Article: Meeting the challenges of power conversion in e-bikes

March 18, 2024
Managing electrical noise in a compact and lightweight vehicle is a perpetual obstacle

Power modules provide high-efficiency conversion between 400V and 800V systems for electric vehicles

March 18, 2024
Porsche, Hyundai and GMC all are converting 400 – 800V today in very different ways. Learn more about how power modules stack up to these discrete designs.

Comments

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Electronic Design, create an account today!