Patent ID: 6926865
Filing Date: 2005-08-09
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for identifying an unknown DNA sample, said apparatus comprising: a plurality of detection nodes, each of said detection nodes operable for allowing an interaction between a known DNA sample and an unknown DNA sample, and for generating an output signal if hybridization occurs between said known DNA sample and said unknown DNA sample; and a decoder operative for receiving an input signal indicative of which of said plurality of detection nodes should be selected for processing, and for outputting control signals which operate to activate said selected detection node; wherein each of said detection nodes includes a first floating gate transistor comprising a floating gate terminal having said known DNA sample and said unknown DNA sample disposed thereon, said first floating gate transistor having a conductance value which varies if hybridization occurs between said known DNA sample and said unknown DNA sample contained in said detection node, said change in said conductance value is operative for generating said output signal, and wherein in said known DNA sample has a highly negative charged molecule attached thereto.