Development of a device that can sequence single molecules of nucleic acid, DNA or RNA, at a rate of million bases per second by electrophoresis of the charged polymers through a solid-state nanopore channel of molecular dimensions is the subject under investigation. Pores with a diameter only slightly larger than that of DNA (~2nm) can be used in the detection and discrimination of single molecules of nucleic acid. Nanopore sensor will be made to enable sequencing DNA at a much faster rate than presently possible without the need for extensive sample preparation procedures, such as enzymatic amplification and labeling reactions. It will analyze electronic properties of individual subunits of DNA or RNA, to obtain linear composition of each genetic polymer molecule.

The tremendous payoffs of such a nanopore sensor are twofold. Firstly, the complete DNA sequence information underlying the biodiversity of planet Earth will be within reach, thus enabling a complete understanding of the molecular basis of life. Secondly, such a sensor would enable the detection of life on other planets.