Rapid pathogen detection using an organic field effect transistor

A pentacene field effect transistor (FET) for the detection of DNA from pathogenic organisms is fabricated. The pentacene FET is an excellent candidate for disposable sensor applications because of its low-cost fabrication process and fast detection. Aviral (lambda-phage) genomic DNA was chosen as a model organism and its presence was successfully detected by probe DNA hybridisation on the pentacene layer. The process produced a dramatic change in the channel current and field-effect mobility of the devices. This result demonstrates the feasibility of our device as a disposable sensor for DNA hybridisation and can lead to the development of a biosensor for rapid pathogen detection.