DNA Sensors Using DNA Charge Transport Chemistry

Abstract

This chapter describes applications of DNA charge transport (DNA CT) in sensing, illustrating how this chemistry is used for the construction of sensitive devices for biochemical applications. It talks about the models for how this sensing technology might also be applied within the cell, how Nature may take advantage of DNA CT chemistry. Electrochemical devices utilizing DNA CT have evolved over time. The first DNA CT‐based detection platforms contained only a single electrode. DNA CT platforms are advantageous for the detection of proteins that interact with DNA. The chapter focuses on a variety of proteins that bind to DNA in different ways but which can all be detected sensitively using DNA electrochemistry. DNA CT can occur over long molecular distances, is sensitive to and can be modulated by DNA‐binding proteins, and reports electrically on the integrity of DNA. This chemistry can therefore be powerfully applied in sensing.