A nanopore-based stochastic detection method: Single molecule characterisation of nanoparticles using ()- hemolysin

Dissertation presented to obtain the Ph.D degree in Chemistry.

Single-molecule techniques are revolutionising analytical chemistry methods. By observing one molecule at a time, the specific dynamics of (sub) populations can be revealed, and the averaging of signals from many molecules, typically obtained in bulk analysis techniques, is avoided. Nanopores have emerged as sensors par excellence for the label-free analysis of single molecules. Nanopore applications are expanding, helped by the fact that biological nanopores can be engineered to improve their suitability for a particular application, and also due to the recent advances in nanofabrication techniques used in the production of solid-state nanopores.(...)