Thrombin Nanochannel Logic Gate Inspired by BioMemory

Abstract

The process of “reading” and “writing” in biomemory involves the transmission of electrical signals between neurons, with ligand-gated ion channels assuming a key role. The solid-state nanochannels exhibit certain similarities with neurons. Information transmission can be achieved by controlling the flow of ions within nanochannels, rendering them potentially suitable for simulating neuron behavior. Herein, thrombin (Thr) was chosen as the target protein, and a functionalized nanochannel sensing system was successfully constructed using DNA aptamers, enabling a highly sensitive Thr response with a detection limit of 0.221 fM. Simultaneously, based on Watson–Crick base pairing and programmable chain displacement reactions, controlled release and cyclic response of the target molecule were further achieved. This mechanism elucidates the rules governing specific input-output relationships, innovatively linking them with memory storage and recognition through the Thr-nanochannel logic gate, thereby realizing the reading of biomemory at the hardware level. In summary, the biological hybrid nanofluidic control device of this invention converts molecular events into electrical signals, providing potential avenues for establishing connections between the mechanisms of biomemory and solid-state nanochannel biosensing and recognition in the future.