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Molecular espionage shows a single HIV enzyme's many tasks

Researchers have discovered that reverse transcriptase, the target of major anti-HIV drugs, can flip between binding orientations to facilitate two distinct catalytic activities. This dynamic behavior is regulated by nonnucleoside RT inhibitors, which hinder the enzyme's ability to convert single-stranded DNA to double-stranded DNA.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

Nanosoftball made of DNA

Researchers have created a DNA nanoscale object, a regular dodecahedron, by using programmed oligonucleotides with three branches. The structure is formed through a self-assembly process and exhibits unique properties, such as being flexible under pressure.

SourceWiley·DateApr 1, 2008

Nanorings

Scientists have developed a method to produce rigid DNA nanorings with a tailored gap, allowing for the incorporation of functional molecules. The rings can be equipped with desired properties, such as anchors that precisely bind them to other components.

SourceWiley·DateMar 5, 2008

Nanoparticle assembly enters the fast lane

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered a way to control the assembly of gold nanoparticles using rigid, double-stranded DNA, which can lead to more efficient energy generation and data storage. The technique takes advantage of DNA's natural tendency to pair up components, allowing for more efficient assembly.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 11, 2006

Sensor uses DNA to detect presence of lead, a dangerous contaminant

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a DNA-based sensor that can detect lead ions in real-time. The sensor uses catalytic DNA with high metal ion selectivity and sensitivity to fluorescence detection, making it an ideal candidate for environmental monitoring and clinical toxicology applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 2, 2000

Peering at a machine that pries DNA apart

Harvard researchers have created the first atomic-resolution image of a donut-shaped enzyme that unwinds the DNA double helix for replication. The structure reveals how six individual polypeptide lobes arrange themselves to look like a ring of bread buns, providing new insights into the molecular motor's mechanism.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateOct 15, 1999

DNA Used To Create Self Assembling Conducting Wire: Breakthrough Will Lead To Next Leap In Emerging Nanoelectronics

Scientists at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have successfully created a working electronic component using DNA to assemble a conducting wire. The wire, 100 nanometers wide, has potential properties that could be used to make computer memories, and its narrow size allows for potentially much faster computer chips.