Next Generation Sensors for Contaminants in Water: Catalytic DNA as a Molecular Beacon

The mobile warfighter needs sensor technology that provides an immediate and unambiguous response to toxins in water. Heavy metals are a ubiquitous and troublesome class of pollutants, and lead (Pb) occupies a prominent position as a contaminant requiring constant attention. Especially due to its nature of its toxicity to humans and the environment, persistency, and bioaccumulation, anthropogenic sources of Pb from military operations require active monitoring and sensing to ensure soldier health protection and environmental compliance. We have created a selective and sensitive miniature sensor for Pb2+ by combining two significant advances: (a) catalytic DNA that is reactive only to Pb2+ and (b) nanoscale fluidic molecular gates that can manipulate fluid flows and perform molecular separations on tiny volumes of material. See also ADM002075., The original document contains color images.