Ultrasensitive Detection of MicroRNAs with Morpholino-Functionalized Nanochannel Biosensor

Here, we demonstrate a phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligos (PMO)-functionalized nanochannel biosensor for label-free detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) with ultrasensitivity and high sequence specificity. PMO, as a capture probe, was covalently anchored on the nanochannel surface. Because of the neutral character and high sequence specific affinity of PMO, hybridization efficiency between PMO and miRNAs was enhanced, thus largely decreasing background signals and highly improving the detection specificity and sensitivity. The miRNAs detection was realized through observing the change of surface charge density when PMO/miRNAs hybridization occurred. Not only could the developed biosensor specifically discriminate complementary miRNAs (Let-7b) from noncomplementary miRNAs (miR-21) and one-base mismatched miRNAs (Let-7c), but also it could detect target miRNAs in serum samples. In addition, this nanochannel-based biosensor attained a reliable limit of detection down to 1 fM in PBS and 10 fM in serum sample, respectively. It is expected that such a new method will benefit miRNA detection in clinical diagnosis.