DNA Curtains Inc.

DNA Curtains Flow Cell

A precision-engineered microfluidic device that makes high-throughput single-molecule biophysical assays accessible to a wide range of researchers and applications.

<40 min
Setup time from start to data
100+
DNA molecules per field of view
6
Independent microfluidic channels
0.5 µL
Channel volume — minimal sample use
Overview

Engineered for the modern single-molecule lab

The DNA Curtains Flow Cell by 1NA is built on a glass coverslip (#1.5) bearing nanofabricated diffusion barriers — gold or titanium structures produced by electron-beam lithography. These barriers physically trap and align individual DNA molecules, making them immediately accessible for TIRF imaging.

The microfluidic channels are formed using PDMS, bonded to the nanopatterned glass surface to create a sealed, leak-free flow cell with six independent experimental lanes.

With a dead volume of just 2 µL and typical experiments requiring only ~10 µL of sample at nanomolar concentrations, the flow cell is designed to make the most of your precious protein samples.

DNA Curtains Flow Cell
Technical Specifications

Full product specifications

Physical

Width30 mm
Length40 mm
Depth9 mm
Weight38 g
Number of channels6
Channel dimensions0.04 × 0.4 × 30 mm
Channel volume0.5 µL
Typical flow rate1 µL/min
Channel dead volume2 µL
Nanostructure materialGold or titanium

Workflow & Compatibility

Experiment setup time< 40 min
Surface passivationSupported lipid bilayer (SLB)
DNA length20–50 kbp
DNA attachment typeSingle or double tethered
DNA molecules per FOV100+
Microscope typeObjective-type TIRF
Syringe pump modeWithdraw mode
Syringe typeGlass, 250 µL or smaller
Typical sample volume~10 µL at nanomolar concentration
Why DNA Curtains

Designed for scientific clarity

High Throughput

Visualize 100+ individual DNA molecules in a single field of view simultaneously, generating statistically robust datasets from one experiment.

Direct Visualization

Observe DNA-protein interactions in real time with no indirect probes required. Intuitive kymograph-based analysis makes data immediately interpretable.

Minimal Sample Use

Six independent 0.5 µL channels and a dead volume of only 2 µL ensure your most precious protein samples go further.

Nanofabrication Precision

Electron-beam lithography enables our unique v-shaped barrier geometry, spacing individual DNA molecules to ensure each is well-separated for straightforward automated analysis.

Multiple Barrier Designs

Available with v-shaped barriers (unique to 1NA) or traditional zigzag continuous barriers, for both single- and double-tether DNA Curtain configurations.

Broad Compatibility

Works with any objective-type TIRF microscope. Compatible with commonly used syringe pumps and standard biochemistry protocols.

Manufacturer

Made by 1NA — Netherlands

1NA is a Dutch company specializing in nanofabrication for life science applications. Leveraging deep expertise in electron-beam lithography and microfluidics, 1NA produces the DNA Curtains Flow Cell to the highest standards of precision and reproducibility.

Each flow cell undergoes quality control to ensure consistent barrier geometry and surface chemistry, batch to batch.

Request a Quote View Technology

Electron-Beam Lithography

Sub-micron precision nanofabrication enabling unique barrier geometries not achievable with conventional photolithography.

PDMS Microfluidics

Soft lithography-defined channels bonded to the nanopatterned glass, forming a leak-free device with defined channel geometry.

Order & Enquiries

Interested in the DNA Curtains Flow Cell?

Get in touch for pricing, lead times, or to discuss whether DNA Curtains technology fits your experimental needs.

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