Graphene encapsulation of biological molecules for single molecule imaging

Abstract

In a method of preparing a single molecule sample of a biological material for use in an imaging experiment, the single molecule sample is deposited on a graphene substrate using a method such as nanopipetting. Excess bulk fluid surrounding the molecule is then removed, for example, by mechanical blotting or controlled evaporation. An enclosing layer of graphene is then deposited and sealed to the graphene substrate so as to encapsulate the molecule. This sealing may include floating the enclosing layer in a water bath and moving it into contact with the graphene substrate. The molecule of interest may be deposited directly on the substrate, or a linker molecule may be first deposited to provide an attachment between the substrate and the molecule of interest.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.