Polymer Translocation Through a Nanopore.

Polymers with distinct topologies-such as linear, star-shaped, ring, and bottlebrush architectures-exhibit diverse translocation behaviors when driven through solid-state nanopores due to differences in flexibility, hydrodynamic size, and steric interactions. These properties enable topology-sensitive single-molecule analysis. In this protocol, we describe detailed procedures for the electrophoretic translocation of PEG-based linear and star polymers through individual nanopores. This method enables precise characterization of polymer conformation and transport kinetics, with differences in dwell time, capture rate, and current blockage amplitude reflecting molecular architecture. The approach offers a practical platform for investigating polymer dynamics under nanoconfinement and supports topology-based analysis and separation.