Streaming current measurements in micro and nanofluidic channels for label-free multiplexed genomics diagnostics

The electrokinetic phenomenon of streaming currents has potential applications in high-speed, electronic multiplexed genomic diagnostics. Streaming currents can be used to study the electrical properties of the solid-liquid interface because of their sensitivity to the magnitude and polarity of the surface charge. DNA immobilization and hybridization was detected in a PDMS/glass microchannel through the observation of changes of magnitude and sign of streaming currents. In addition, silicon dioxide (SiO₂) nanochannel arrays are also electrically characterized via impedance and streaming current measurements.