Quantum sensing of microRNAs with nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond

• DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01182-7
• Publication Date: 2024-05-06T16:02:21Z
• Authors: Justas Zalieckas; Martin M. Greve; Luca Bellucci; Giuseppe Sacco; Verner Håkonsen; Valentina Tozzini; Riccardo Nifosì
• Keywords: Biomolecule; Limiting; Debye; Quantum sensor

Abstract Label-free detection of nucleic acids such as microRNAs holds great potential for early diagnostics various types cancers. Measuring intrinsic biomolecular charge using methods based on field effect has been a promising way to accomplish label-free detection. However, the charges biomolecules are screened by counter ions in solutions over short distance (Debye length), thereby limiting sensitivity these methods. Here, we measure magnetic noise paramagnetic ions, Mn 2+ , interacting with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers diamond. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations show that microRNA interacts diamond surface resulting excess accumulation and stronger noise. We confirm this prediction observing an increase spin relaxation contrast NV centers, indicating higher local concentration. This opens new possibilities next-generation quantum sensing charged biomolecules, overcoming limitations due Debye screening.