Sorting molecules with DNA robots
Conceptual illustration of two DNA robots collectively performing a cargo-sorting activity on a DNA origami floor, transporting fluorescent molecules with totally different colours from initially unordered areas to separated locations. Appreciable creative license has been taken. Credit score: Demin Liu Think about a robotic that might make it easier to tidy your own home: roving about, sorting stray socks into the laundry and soiled dishes into the dishwasher. Whereas such a sensible helper should be the stuff of science fiction, Caltech scientists have developed an autonomous molecular machine that may carry out comparable duties -- on the nanoscale. This "robotic," manufactured from a single strand of DNA, can autonomously "stroll" round a floor, choose up sure molecules and drop them off in designated areas. The work was accomplished within the laboratory of Lulu Qian, assistant professor of bioengineering. It seems in a paper within the...