Modulation of a DNA-based photodetector: Virus-Chromophore hybridization

In recent years, the optical capability of biological materials has received much attention. Many researchers have focused on designing optical gates based on switchable organic materials such as DNA sequences. In the present work, we propose a design for a molecular photodetector. We have used a setup based on the hepatitis delta virus (HDV) and the Toxocara canis parasite sequences in the platform of the photodetector. The chromophore is used as a disorder intercalated within the DNA HDV sequence to improve the optical properties of the system. We show that charge transport of the system can be switched between ON/OFF modes. We demonstrate that the light-driven electrical current in the presence of the chromophore can be improved up to about 0.89 &mu A. Finally, we also show that it is possible to increase the photodetector efficiency by adjusting the system&rsquos structure and configuration.