2D mos2 field-effect transistor nanosensors for rapid DNA/RNA detection

Overview

This solution offers a next-generation biosensing platform built on two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) field-effect transistors (FETs) functionalized with single-strand DNA probe molecules. The technology enables rapid, highly sensitive, and selective detection of target DNA and RNA sequences, with demonstrated detection limits reaching approximately 1 femtomolar (fM). By integrating a universal surface functionalization method with pre-designed multi-channel FET patterns, the platform supports simultaneous detection of multiple nucleic acid targets on a single device. This makes it well suited for applications in clinical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, agricultural pathogen screening, and point-of-care testing where fast and reliable molecular detection is critical.

Technical specifications

Core technology:

• 2D semiconducting MoS2 flakes serve as the transistor channel material, providing high surface-area-to-volume ratio for enhanced sensing response
• Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) intermediate layer encapsulates and stabilizes the MoS2 channel while enabling reliable surface functionalization
• Pyrene-based linker chemistry (pyrene-NHS ester or 1-pyrenebutyric hydrazide) bonds single-strand DNA probe molecules to the sensor surface
• High-density 2D MoS2 flakes improve device reliability and signal consistency

Key features:

• Femtomolar-level sensitivity: preliminary tests show a limit of detection of approximately 1 fM for DNA targets
• Multi-target capability: pre-designed large-area FET patterns enable simultaneous detection of multiple DNA/RNA molecules in a single assay
• Selectivity: achieved through sequence-specific single-strand DNA probe receptors matched to each target
• Rapid response: FET-based electrical readout delivers real-time or near-real-time detection without lengthy labeling or amplification steps
• Portable format: the platform is being developed into a portable measurement device with a USB interface for laptop connectivity

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at a mid-to-late stage of laboratory validation. Preliminary results have confirmed successful fabrication of functionalized 2D MoS2-based FET DNA sensors, with demonstrated sensitivity (approximately 1 fM limit of detection) and selectivity against non-complementary sequences. The same functionalization approach has also been validated for PFAS detection, achieving a 0.001 ppb detection limit and multi-analyte simultaneous detection, demonstrating the versatility of the platform. Remaining development work focuses on scaling large-area MoS2 growth, comprehensive sensing performance assessment (response time, sensitivity, and selectivity calibration curves), field validation using plant-derived DNA/RNA samples cross-verified by PCR, and manufacturing the sensors into a portable, USB-connected readout device.