An investigation into the feasibility of myoglobin-based single-electron transistors

作者：Li Debin^*; Gannett Peter M; Lederman David

来源：Nanotechnology, 2012, 23(39): 395705.

DOI：10.1088/0957-4484/23/39/395705

Myoglobin single-electron transistors were investigated using nanometer-gap platinum electrodes fabricated by electromigration at cryogenic temperatures. Apomyoglobin (myoglobin without the heme group) was used as a reference. The results suggest single-electron transport is mediated by resonant tunneling with the electronic and vibrational levels of the heme group in a single protein. They also represent a proof-of-principle that proteins with redox centers across nanometer-gap electrodes can be utilized to fabricate single-electron transistors. The protein orientation and conformation may significantly affect the conductance of these devices. Future improvements in device reproducibility and yield will require control of these factors.

• 出版日期2012-10-5