Technical Perspectives on Applications of Biologically Coupled Gate Field-Effect Transistors

Biosensing technologies are required for point-of-care testing (POCT). We determine some physical parameters such as molecular charge and mass, redox potential, and reflective index for measuring biological phenomena. Among such technologies, biologically coupled gate field-effect transistor (Bio-FET) sensors are a promising candidate as a type of potentiometric biosensor for the POCT because they enable the direct detection of ionic and biomolecular charges in a miniaturized device. However, we need to reconsider some technical issues of Bio-FET sensors to expand their possible use for biosensing in the future. In this perspective, the technical issues of Bio-FET sensors are pointed out, focusing on the shielding effect, pH signals, and unique parameters of FETs for biosensing. Moreover, other attractive features of Bio-FET sensors are described in this perspective, such as the integration and the semiconductive materials used for the Bio-FET sensors.

Automated summary

Biosensing technologies are crucial for point-of-care testing. Bio-FET sensors, as a kind of potentiometric biosensor, have great potential due to their ability to directly detect ionic and biomolecular charges in miniaturized devices. However, there are still technical issues that need to be addressed to expand their applications in biosensing.