IBM DNA Transistor

IBM DNA Transistor
The Future of Genome Sequencing

In an effort to build a nanoscale DNA sequencer, IBM scientists are drilling nano-sized holes in computer-like chips and passing DNA strands through them in order to read the information contained within their genetic code.

This research effort is to design a silicon-based DNA Transistor that could help pave the way to easily and quickly read human DNA, generating advancements in health condition diagnosis and treatment. The challenge in the effort is to slow the flow of the DNA through the hole so the reader can accurately decode what is in the DNA. If successful, the project could improve throughput and reduce cost to achieve the vision of personalized genome analysis at a cost of $100 to $1,000. In comparison, the first sequencing ever done by the Human Genome Project (HGP) cost $3 billion.

A human genome sequencing capability affordable for individuals is the ultimate goal of the DNA sequencing and is commonly referred to as $1,000 genome. Ultimately, it can improve the quality of medical care by identifying patients who will gain the greatest benefit from a particular medicine and those who are most at risk of adverse reactions.

Video : IBM DNA Transistor

Schematics of the DNA transistor operation for the control of the translocation of a DNA through a nanopore

A membrane containing the nanopore, funtionalized with metal contacts (orange) separated by dielectric materials (lime), devides a reservoir into a top part containing an ionic solution with a high concentration of single stranded DNA, and a bottom part, where the DNA will be translocated to. The DNA on the top reservoir is induced to go to the bottom reservoir by the action of a biasing voltage. In the absence of anything else, the DNA would translocate through the pore at a speed of several million bases per second. To control the passage of DNA trhough the nano-hole, voltages of appropriate polarity (not shown) are applied to the metal contacts inside the pore, which create an internal electric field that trap the DNA. By alternating the trapping voltages applied to the metal contacts, the DNA can be made ratchet from the top to the bottom reservoirs in a controlled way.

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Reyes Vargas Jairo Alberto