Silicon Nanowire as Virus Sensor in a Total Analysis System

Silicon nanowires are very promising candidates for the sensitive detection of viruses or even early detection of cancer. Due to their small dimensions the attachment of even one particle on their surface leads to detectable changes in their conductivity. In this paper we describe the development (fabrication and testing) of a silicon nanowire biosensor equipped with microfludic channels and automatized data aquisition for the detection of antibodies against a small virus (Aleutian Disease Virus) causing plasmacytosis on mink and ferrets.