Reconfigurable Magnetic Nanopores for Selective Nanoparticle Trapping

We have recently published a study in Small Science demonstrating a magnetic nanopore platform that can actively capture and release nanoparticles.

By integrating a thin permalloy layer into nanopore structures, we exploit localized magnetic fields at the pore edges to create nanoscale magnetic tweezers. The key innovation is the ability to reversibly switch the magnetic configuration between two states: an ON state, which traps magnetic nanoparticles, and an OFF state, which suppresses trapping. This provides precise control over nanoparticle localization using externally applied magnetic fields.

Using fluorescence microscopy, we experimentally demonstrate selective trapping of fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles, with trapping efficiency controlled by the magnetic state of the nanopores.

This work opens new perspectives for active nanopore platforms, with potential applications in single-particle analysis, biosensing and nanofluidics, where precise control over analyte positioning and residence time is essential.