Molecular Combing of λ-DNA using Self-Propelled Water Droplets on Wettability Gradient Surfaces

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b08607
• Publication Date: 2016-08-19T15:58:07Z
• Authors: Dipak Giri; Zi Li; Kayesh M. Ashraf; Maryanne M. Colli...; Daniel A. Higgins
• Keywords: Combing

Surface wettability gradients were used to elongate and align double stranded λ-DNA. Gradients prepared by vapor phase deposition of octyltrichlorosilane (C8-silane) fluorinated (F-silane) precursors. Gradient formation was confirmed water contact angle ellipsometric film thickness measurements. Placement a droplet aqueous DNA solution on the hydrophobic end each gradient led spontaneous motion toward hydrophilic DNA. Fluorescence imaging surface-adsorbed YOYO-1 labeled molecules revealed that they are elongated aligned perpendicular droplet-surface line at all positions along gradient, consistent with dominant role played surface tension forces in elongating The density adsorbed found be greatest C8-silane its end. decreased end, while length less dependent position. elongation chemical surfaces has possible applications barcoding studies DNA–protein interactions.