On manipulation and detection of biomolecules using magnetic carriers

We performed micromagnetic simulations regarding the detection of magnetic microbeads using spin-valve sensors. Detection of magnetic fields generated by these magnetic particles encapsulated in plastic, carbon or ceramic spheres which are coated with chemical or biological species such as DNA or antibodies that selectively bind to the target analyte can be made using giant magnetoresistive (GMR) or planar Hall effect (PHE) sensors made from spin-valve structures. This detection concept is suitable to biomolecular recognition, and in particular to single molecule detection. The concept and the realization of a magnetohydrodynamic micro pump are presented.