Abstract:
The nanoscale arrangements of biomolecules on surfaces underlie a wide spectrum of biological functions and biotechnological devices.  We aim to use new scanning probe based techniques to extend our currently limited ability in measuring and controlling biomolecules at the nanoscale and single molecule level.  We have developed the single molecule nanografting technique that positions single DNA molecules with nanometer resolution. We have developed a new surface that enables us to follow the DNA hybridization with extraordinary sensitivity. Our potentiodynamic imaging and analyses allow us to probe electric-field activated conformational switching and reactions of individual DNA molecules.  Our studies have revealed novel structures and dynamics that provide insight into how biomolecules interact with the surface, which has been difficult to infer from existing ensemble measurements.  The greatly improved understanding and control of biomolecules at the nanoscale have implications in developing ultra-sensitive biosensors, creating artificial functional bimolecular structures, and unraveling key biological functions.