Discrimination of neutral oligosaccharides through a nanopore

► Single-molecule detection of oligosaccharides was performed using a protein nanopore. ► Transit of oligosaccharides was recorded through a single α-hemolysin nanopore. ► Dwell time increased with molecular mass of oligosaccharides. ► (1 → 4)- and (1 → 6)-linked oligosaccharides were distinguished. ► These results indicate the value of nanopore to probe structure of oligosaccharides.