Patent ID: 7468271
Filing Date: 2008-12-23
Classification: B82Y,C12Q,G01N,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A molecular characterization device comprising: a first reservoir containing a liquid solution including a molecule to be characterized; a second reservoir for containing a liquid solution including a molecule that has been characterized; a solid state support structure including an aperture having a molecular entrance providing a fluidic connection to the first reservoir and a molecular exit providing a fluidic connection to the second reservoir; first and second electron transport probes, at least one of the probes comprising a fullerene structure, each of the probes being disposed on the support structure and having a surface abutting a perimeter of the aperture; a voltage source connected between the probes to apply a voltage bias across the aperture; and an electrical current monitor connected between the probes for monitoring changes in electron transport between the probes corresponding to translocation of a molecule through the aperture.