Silicon nanowire field-effect transistor-based biosensors for biomedical diagnosis and cellular recording investigation

SummarySilicon nanowire field-effect transistors (SiNW-FETs) have recently drawn tremendous attention as a promising tool in biosensor design because of their ultrasensitivity, selectivity, and label-free and real-time detection capabilities. Here, we review the recently published literature that describes the device fabrication and biomedical applications of SiNW-FET sensors. For practical uses, SiNW-FETs can be delicately designed to be a reusable device via a reversible surface functionalization method. In the fields of biological research, SiNW-FETs are employed in the detections of proteins, DNA sequences, small molecules, cancer biomarkers, and viruses. The methods by which the SiNW-FET devices were integrated with these representative examples and advanced to virus infection diagnosis or early cancer detection will be discussed. In addition, the utilization of SiNW-FETs in recording the physiological responses from cells or tissues will also be reviewed. Finally, the novel design of a three dimensional (3D) nano-FET probe with kinked SiNWs for recording intracellular signals will be highlighted in this review.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (174 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Silicon nanowires configured field-effect transistors were used as a biosensor. ► To investigate protein–protein interaction and DNA hybridization. ► For viral infection monitoring, early cancer detection, and biomarker detection. ► To monitor electrical and transmitter signals from living cells. ► Synthesize a 3D-localized bioprobe to record intracellular potentials.