A Novel Biosensing Approach: Improving SnS2 FET Sensitivity with a Tailored Supporter Molecule and Custom Substrate

The exclusive features of two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors, such as high surface-to-volume ratios, tunable electronic properties, and biocompatibility, provide promising opportunities for developing highly sensitive biosensors. However, developing practical biosensors that can promptly detect low concentrations of target analytes remains a challenging task. Here, a field-effect-transistor comprising n-type transition metal dichalcogenide tin disulfide (SnS2) is developed over the hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) for the detection of streptavidin protein (Strep.) as a target analyte. A self-designed receptor based on the pyrene-lysine conjugated with biotin (PLCB) is utilized to maintain the sensitivity of the SnS2/h-BN FET because of the pi-pi stacking. The detection capabilities of SnS2/h-BN FET are investigated using both Raman spectroscopy and electrical characterizations. The real-time electrical measurements exhibit that the SnS2/h-BN FET is capable of detecting streptavidin at a remarkably low concentration of 0.5 pm, within 13.2 s. Additionally, the selectivity of the device is investigated by measuring its response against a Cow-like serum egg white protein (BSA), having a comparative molecular weight to that of the streptavidin. These results indicate a high sensitivity and rapid response of SnS2/h-BN biosensor against the selective proteins, which can have significant implications in several fields including point-of-care diagnostics, drug discovery, and environmental monitoring.

Automated summary

In this study, a two-dimensional semiconductor biosensor based on tin disulfide/hexagonal boron nitride (SnS2/h-BN) was developed for the detection of streptavidin protein. A self-designed receptor was utilized to maintain the sensitivity of the biosensor, and the detection capabilities were investigated using Raman spectroscopy and electrical characterizations. The results showed that the SnS2/h-BN biosensor had high sensitivity and rapid response to low concentrations of target analytes, making it valuable for applications in point-of-care diagnostics, drug discovery, and environmental monitoring.