Iontronic Photoelectrochemical Biorecognition Probing

Abstract

Herein, the first iontronic photoelectrochemical (PEC) biorecognition probing is devised by rational engineering of a dual-functional bioconjugate, i.e., a light-sensitive intercalated structural DNA, as a smart gating module confined within a nanotip, which could respond to both the incident light and biotargets of interest. Light stimulation of the bioconjugate could intensify the negative charge at the nano-orifice to sustain enhanced ionic current. The presence of proteins (e.g., acetylcholinesterase, AChE) or nucleic acids (e.g., microRNA (miR)-10b) could lead to bioconjugate release with altered ionic signaling. The practical applicability of the methodology is confirmed by AChE detection in human serum and miR-10b detection in single cells.

Iontronic Sensing Based on Confined Ion Transport

“…Several previous reviews summarized the progress of nanopore sensing from the view of electrochemical confinement, nanopipette and its applications. − Herein, we would like to summarize the recent progress from the viewpoint of iontronic sensing due its great potential for applications in complex environments and achieving complex functions. − An illustrative example of this potential lies in the realization of neuromorphic functions and sensing, which was previously unattainable without the integration of iontronic sensing. By bridging the gap in the diverse disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics, iontronic sensing has paved the way for such groundbreaking advancements. , Therefore, in this Review, we focus on iontronic sensing on the basis of confined ion transport as it gives rise to a variety of novel structures and introduces new mechanisms and phenomena that pave the way for innovative applications …”