We are working on creating label free, real time, nanoscale electronic sensors for measurement of various parameters significant in the characterization of single cell function. These parameters include pH, ion concentration, small molecule concentration and protein concentration which we are hoping to measure with picomolar sensitivity.

We take advantage of the nanoscale properties of silicon nanowires to achieve the sensitivity required in these measurements. The surface of the nanowires is functionalized with various receptor molecules specifically chosen for the type of target molecule or parameter in question. Molecules binding to the appropriate receptors on the surface will change the electric properties of the nanowire which, due to the high surface area to volume ratio of nanowires, we are then able to detect by monitoring the resistance of these devices.

Arrays of such sensors allow for highly sensitive, simultaneous, noninvasive monitoring of many different parameters of the immediate extra-cellular environment. Converting the occurrence of molecular binding events into electrical signals, simplifies the data analysis process. This system is also highly adaptable for other cellular sensing applications such as real time monitoring of molecular communication between multiple cells.

Group Members

Samuel Kim
PhD Student
samkimuw@u.washington.edu

Ehsan Saeedi
PhD Student
ehsan@u.washington.edu

Andrei Afanasiev
PhD Student
afanas@u.washington.edu

Ranjana Mehta
Postdoctoral Scholar
ranj@u.washington.edu

Jianchun Dong
PhD Student
jd8@u.washington.edu

Our research focuses on the development of fluorescent molecular probes for imaging and sensing of physiological parameters of a single cell in real time, and optical trapping techniques for individual cell manipulation are critical prerequisites for the MLSC. Research activities in Jen group are geared toward design and syntheses of fluorescence molecular probes, sensors and development of delivery mechanisms of the probes for imaging and inter- and intra-cellular detection of biophysical environments. We are taking two different approaches for the development of molecular probes for imaging. Individual hydrophilic dyes can be used directly for imaging, or dye doped micelles can be used for a delivery mechanism of highly efficient hydrophobic dyes to biological targets.

Group Members

Yanqing Tian,
Dr. Research Scientist, e-mail:
yqtian@u.washington.edu

Sei-Hum Jang, PhD
Research Scientist,
jangsh@u.washington.edu

Ching-Yi Chen,
Graduate Student, e-mail:
chingyi@u.washington.edu

Cody A. Young,
Graduate Student, e-mail:
acyoung@u.washington.edu