Sol-gel Silane Films for DNA Microarray Experiments

K. Saal, T. Tätte, I. Kink, A. Kurg, R. Lõhmus, U. Mäeorg, A. Rinken and A. Lõhmus
University of Tartu, EE

Keywords: sol-gel, silane, films, DNA, immobilization

Abstract:
Aim of the current research is development of a method for producing a new kind of aminosilanized films suitable for applications utilizing immobilized DNA molecules. We report on new progress in a procedure proposed in our recent paper (T. Tätte et al, Surf. Sci. 532-535 (2003), p. 1085) by focussing on manipulation of films' physical and chemical properties such as hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity and the density of functional groups without compromising the uniformity and nanoscale smoothness of the film critical for several DNA/related applications. The new films are also compared to commercial substrates (Asper Biotech Ltd.) in DNA microarray experiments. The results indicate to several interesting aspects like higher possible binding rates, variability in DNA spot dimensions and increased reproducibility of data. Improved characteristcs of spotted DNA result in more efficient and reliable DNA microarray based experiments and applications (e.g. genotyping). Current study comprises two major parts: characterization (AFM and wettability measurements, FTIR, MALDI-TOF and NMR spectroscopy), and application (DNA binding experiments) of prepared films.

Nanotech 2004 Conference Technical Program Abstract