Functional one-dimensional nanomaterials: Applications in nanoscale biosensors

Nanostructures such as nanotubes (NTs), nanowires (NWs), and nanoparticles present new opportunities as sensing platforms for biological and environmental applications. Having micrometer-scale lengths and nanometer-scale diameters, NTs and NWs can be manipulated with current microfabrication, as well as self-assembly techniques to fabricate nanoscale devices and sensors. Alignment, uniform dispersion, selective growth, and diameter control are parameters that are critical to the successful integration of nanostructures into sensors and devices. Overcoming these challenges should lead to sensors with better selectivity, sensitivity, and longer operational lifetime. This review discusses biosensors based on nanostructured material.