Nanopore stochastic sensor using a biological protein ion channel has emerged as a powerful sensing technique due to its outstanding features... Show moreNanopore stochastic sensor using a biological protein ion channel has emerged as a powerful sensing technique due to its outstanding features such as label- and amplification-free detection, rapidness, high sensivity and selectivity. Development of a nanopore stochastic sensor for the rapid detection of anthrax can effectively prevent and control the spread of disease infection, and become extremely useful in biodefense. Two sensor design strategies were studied: one is chemistry-based detection of dipicolinic acid; and the other is genetics-based detection of anthrax lethal factor. Both approaches used in this study should find useful application in the development of nanopore sensors for the detection of other biomolecules and pathogens. M.S. in Chemistry, May 2014 Show less