Diphenylalanine micro/nanotubes in PDMS microchannels with electric field

Diphenylalanine (FF) is a dipeptide known for its self-assembly into various nanostructures, such as nanotubes and nanowires, particularly in the presence of water. These nanostructures have unique properties that make them suitable for diverse applications, including biosensors and optical devices. This study investigates the properties and potential diagnostic applications of FF micro/nanotubes (FFMNTs) grown in polymeric microchannels of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) under the influence of an electric field. The analysis reveals the potential use of this device for biomarker molecule analysis through surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Furthermore, the electronic properties of FFMNTs, such as bandgap and semiconductor characteristics, were observed. The study demonstrates the successful formation of FFMNTs in PDMS microchannels with and without an electric field, revealing significant morphological differences between the two growth conditions.