Detection of Tumor Markers Using Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistors

Abstract

We have developed a biosensor capable of detecting carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) markers using single-walled carbon nanotube field effect transistors (SWNT-FETs). These SWNT-FETs were fabricated using nanotubes produced by a patterned catalyst growth technique, where the top contact electrodes were generated using conventional photolithography. For biosensor applications, SU-8 negative photoresist patterns were used as an insulation layer. CEA antibodies were employed as recognition elements to specific tumor markers, and were successfully immobilized on the sides of a single-walled carbon nanotube using CDI-Tween 20 linking molecules. The binding of tumor markers to these antibody-functionalized SWNT-FETs was then monitored continuously during exposure to dilute CEA solutions. The observed sharp decrease in conductance demonstrates the possibility of realizing highly sensitive, label-free SWNT-FET-based tumor sensors.