First principles investigation of nanopore sequencing using variable voltage bias on graphene-based nanoribbons

TL;DR

This paper uses first principles calculations to explore how variable voltage biases across graphene nanoribbons can differentiate DNA nucleobases in nanopore sequencing, proposing a new methodology for device development.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical framework for using variable voltage biases in graphene nanopores to distinguish nucleobases, advancing nanopore sequencing technology.

Findings

Different voltages can distinguish nucleobases based on transverse current differences.

A methodology for developing multi-nanopore devices for DNA/RNA sequencing.

Potential to improve biomolecule identification techniques.

Abstract

In this study, we examine the mechanism of nanopore-based DNA sequencing using a voltage bias across a graphene nanoribbon. Using density functional theory and a non-equilibrium Green's function approach, we determine the transmission spectra and current profile for adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil as a function of bias voltage in an energy minimized configuration. Utilizing the transmission current, we provide a general methodology for the development of a three nanopore graphene-based device that can be used to distinguish between the various nucleobases for DNA/RNA sequencing. From our analysis, we deduce that it is possible to use different transverse currents across a multi-nanopore device to differentiate between nucleobases using various voltages of 0.5, 1.3, and 1.6 V. Overall, our goal is to improve nanopore design to further DNA/RNA nucleobase sequencing and biomolecule identification techniques.