A DNA prism: Physical principles for optimizing a microfabricated DNA separation device

Lotien Richard Huang, Jonas O. Tegenfeldt, James C. Sturm, Robert H. Austin, Edward C. Cox

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Recently, we reported a microfabricated "DNA prism" device that continuously sorts large DNA molecules (61 kilobase pair to 209 kb) according to size in 15 seconds. In this paper, we develop models to understand and optimize the device. The device's complicated characteristics are explained poorly by a simple model based on the assumption that DNA molecules are fully stretched. Assuming DNA molecules obey Hooke's law, a second model successfully explains the "biphasic" separation characteristics under low fields. Further, the model suggests the use of high fields combined with shorter pulse durations for more linear separation dependence on molecular weight, an advantage which is then confirmed by experiments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)211-214
Number of pages4
JournalTechnical Digest - International Electron Devices Meeting
StatePublished - 2002
Event2002 IEEE International Devices Meeting (IEDM) - San Francisco, CA, United States
Duration: Dec 8 2002Dec 11 2002

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Materials Chemistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A DNA prism: Physical principles for optimizing a microfabricated DNA separation device'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this