Tantawi K.H., Berdiev B., Cerro R., Williams J.D.
University of Alabama in Huntsville, US
Keywords: Impedance spectroscopy, lipid bilayer, porous silicon, transmembrane ion channel
This article presents a batch-fabricated porous silicon membrane tool used to investigate transmembrane protein functionality in complex biological systems. We address the physical and chemical requirements fabricate the thin porous membrane, attached a lipid bilayer, fuse an ion channel protein and measure the electrical response of the system. This was achieved through the use of electrochemical impedance analysis, atomic force microscopy, and specific optical spectroscopic methods. We demonstrate that integrating membrane protein functionality directly with silicon device technology can be used for energy conservation and electronic signaling both to and from a biological system. Finally, these studies will enable the test of multiple proteins working together within cell or organelle membranes.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2013: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 198 - 201
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topic: Biomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0586-2