Graphene-protein bioelectronic devices with wavelength-dependent photoresponse

TL;DR

This study develops a bioelectronic device by integrating graphene FETs with soluble proteins, enabling wavelength-dependent light response based on protein absorption spectra.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel method to attach tagged proteins to graphene FETs, creating hybrid devices with tunable photoresponse properties.

Findings

Successful functionalization of graphene FETs with fluorescent proteins

Wavelength-dependent photoresponse demonstrated in hybrid devices

Structural analysis confirms bio/nano interface integrity

Abstract

We implemented a nanoelectronic interface between graphene field effect transistors (FETs) and soluble proteins. This enables production of bioelectronic devices that combine functionalities of the biomolecular and inorganic components. The method serves to link polyhistidine-tagged proteins to graphene FETs using the tag itself. Atomic Force Microscopy and Raman spectroscopy provide structural understanding of the bio/nano hybrid; current-gate voltage measurements are used to elucidate the electronic properties. As an example application, we functionalize graphene FETs with fluorescent proteins to yield hybrids that respond to light at wavelengths defined by the optical absorption spectrum of the protein