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DNA origami illuminates invisible molecular movements

Researchers at Salk Institute develop novel 'dye-cycling' strategy to measure RNA polymerase movement along DNA with unprecedented lengths of time. This breakthrough provides critical mechanical insights into how genes are transcribed in cells, shedding light on the fundamental processes of life.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports Methods·DateAug 13, 2026

SNU researchers develop generative AI technology for designing DNA nanostructures in arbitrary shapes

Researchers at Seoul National University developed an automated design platform using generative AI to create complex DNA origami structures with curved and irregular geometries. The technology, Generative SNUPI, enables users to fabricate DNA nanostructures that can undergo shape transformations and be assembled modularly.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026
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New tool to help build more reliable DNA nanostructures

A new computational tool predicts and avoids unwanted interactions in DNA origami, improving reliability for biomedical and technological applications. The tool optimizes DNA sequence choice to minimize off-target interactions, leading to more successful folding of nano-scale devices.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 9, 2026

Virus-inspired DNA needle could pave the way for better medicines

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed an artificial virus-like DNA needle that can deliver molecules directly into cells. The technique uses DNA origami to assemble the needle and deliver its payload, potentially solving a major issue with many therapies being trapped inside cells.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 1, 2026

Building protection against infectious diseases with nanostructured vaccines

Researchers at the Wyss Institute developed DoriVac, a DNA nanotechnology-enabled vaccine platform that induces broad immunity against infectious viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, HIV, and Ebola. The platform produces potent antigen-specific immune responses and is more stable and easier to manufacture than traditional vaccine platforms.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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DNA origami guides new possibilities in the fight against pancreatic cancer

Researchers developed DNA origami structures that selectively deliver fluorescent imaging agents to pancreatic cancer cells, enabling more accurate cancer imaging and selective chemotherapy delivery. The study also explored the use of origami-folded DNA molecules loaded with chemotherapy drugs for targeted delivery to cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 22, 2025

DNA origami suggests route to reusable, multifunctional biosensors

Researchers at Caltech developed a DNA origami-based approach to create reusable, multifunctional biosensors for quickly detecting proteins in bodily fluids. The system uses a lilypad-like structure with short DNA strands to bind to molecules of interest, allowing for the detection of larger molecules such as large proteins.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 24, 2025

Velcro DNA helps build nanorobotic Meccano

Scientists at the University of Sydney create programmable nanostructures using DNA origami, enabling rapid prototyping of diverse configurations. These custom-designed nanostructures have potential applications in targeted drug delivery, responsive materials, and energy-efficient optical signal processing.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2024

Nanotechnology: Flexible biosensors with modular design

LMU researchers have developed a general, modular strategy for designing sensors that can be easily adapted to various target molecules and concentration ranges. The sensor uses a DNA origami scaffold, which consists of two arms connected by a molecular hinge, allowing for significant acceleration in diagnostic tool development.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 8, 2024
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Nanotechnology: DNA origami with cargo function

Researchers have developed a DNA origami-based sensor that can detect lipid vesicles and deliver molecular cargo with precision. The system uses single-molecule Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET) to measure the distance between fluorescent molecules.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 18, 2024

SNU researchers develop technology to predict the deformation of DNA origami structures induced by DNA-binding molecules

Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a technology to quickly predict the mechanochemical shape changes of DNA origami structures based on the concentration of binding molecules. This methodology enables the design of tunable DNA origami structures that can change shape as needed, contributing to advancements in DNA n...

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Nanorobot with hidden weapon kills cancer cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed nanorobots that target and kill cancer cells using a 'kill switch' activated in low pH environments. The study achieved a 70% reduction in tumour growth in mice, paving the way for further investigation into its potential as a cancer treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Diamond glitter: A play of colors with artificial DNA crystals

Scientists have developed a new approach for manufacturing semiconductors for visible light using DNA origami. The method uses a diamond lattice structure with periodicity of hundreds of nanometers, allowing for efficient solar cells and innovative optical waveguides.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateMay 17, 2024

DNA origami-based vaccines toward safe and highly-effective precision cancer immunotherapy

A new DNA origami platform, DoriVac, enables precise spacing of adjuvant molecules and a variety of antigens to enhance anti-tumor responses. The vaccine demonstrated enhanced efficacy in controlling tumor growth and prolonging survival in mice, synergizing with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2024
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DNA origami folded into tiny motor

Researchers have developed a working nanoscale electromotor powered by hydrodynamic flow through a nanopore. This innovation uses DNA origami to create a turbine with precise control over rotational speed and direction. The tiny motor has potential applications in molecular factories, medical probes, and soft propulsion systems.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2024

DNA construction led to unexpected discovery of important cell function

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used DNA origami to activate the Notch receptor in a new way, revealing it can be activated 'on demand' with the help of a protein called Jag1. The study opens new avenues for understanding the Notch signalling pathway and its role in serious diseases like cancer and Alagille Syndrome.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Unveiling the mechanism of 3D folding of cell sheets

A Kyoto University team reveals the Dumpy protein as the key factor in controlling 3D tissue structures through external cues. This finding challenges traditional understanding of morphogenesis and opens up new avenues for manufacturing controllable 3D tissue folding with coordinated cell behaviors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Reprogramming the shape of virus capsids could advance biomedicine

Scientists have developed a way to program virus particles' size and shape using DNA origami nanostructures, potentially advancing vaccine development and drug delivery. The approach uses electrostatic interactions between DNA nanostructures and capsid proteins to create user-defined assemblies.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 17, 2023

Nature-study reveals new mechanism for DNA folding

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet and the Max Planck Institute have identified a new mechanism for DNA folding, revealing how the Smc5/6 complex regulates chromosomal organization. This discovery provides new insights into normal development and disease prevention.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2023

Designing with DNA

A new software program developed by Duke Ph.D. student Dan Fu lets users create 3D structures made of DNA, including tiny vases, bowls, and hollow spheres. The software relies on a way to build with DNA described in 2011 by Hao Yan, which works by coiling a long DNA double helix into concentric rings to form the contours of the object.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2022

RNA origami enables applications in synthetic biology

Researchers at Aarhus University use RNA origami sponges and CRISPR technology to regulate protein production levels and gene expression in bacteria and yeast. This approach generates stable, interactive molecules for synthetic biology-based regulation, enabling unique applications in industrial, diagnostic, and therapeutic fields.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2022
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A "nano-robot" built entirely from DNA to explore cell processes

Scientists have developed a DNA nano-robot that can apply forces with unprecedented accuracy, enabling closer study of mechanical forces at microscopic levels. The robot is designed to target specific mechanoreceptors, allowing researchers to activate them and study key signaling pathways involved in biological processes.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2022

First electric nanomotor made from DNA material

Researchers created a synthetic rotary motor using DNA origami, allowing for targeted movement and mechanical work. The nanomotors can be controlled to rotate in one direction and achieve unprecedented mechanical capabilities.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2022

DNA nanotech safe for medical use, new study suggests

A new study from Ohio State University found that DNA nanotechnology is safe for medical use in mice, with a dose-dependent immune response. The research suggests that different shapes of nanostructures may be more conducive to different therapeutic applications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022
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Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Repurposing cancer drug to treat neuroinflammation

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have successfully repurposed a cancer drug to target neuroinflammatory diseases like multiple sclerosis. A novel drug carrier was developed to deliver the treatment specifically to microglia, reducing inflammation and disease progression.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2022

Artificial cell membrane channels composed of DNA can be opened and locked with a key

Researchers at Arizona State University have designed and constructed artificial membrane channels using DNA, allowing selective transport of ions, proteins, and cargo. The channels can be opened and closed with a lock and key mechanism, enabling diverse scientific domains such as biosensing and drug delivery applications.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2022

Study probes how DNA folding might affect gene activity

Researchers have clarified the mechanism behind activating genes in drosophila fly sex cells, which may hold clues to understanding diseases. The study's findings suggest that DNA packaging plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with abnormal packaging potentially leading to misregulation and disease.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Chemical 'nose' sniffs critical differences in DNA structures

Researchers create system to sense unusual DNA folds using chemical receptors, which could silence genes linked to cancer or promote tumor growth. The technology has potential applications in disease research and gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 4, 2021

Planting the seed for DNA nanoconstructs that grow to the micron scale

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute develop programmable DNA self-assembly strategy for ultrasensitive diagnostic biomarker detection and scalable fabrication of micrometer-sized structures. The 'crisscross polymerization' approach enables robust nucleation control and growth to large sizes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 22, 2021
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Researchers watch anti-cancer drug release from DNA nanostructures in real time

A team of researchers from Aalto University and other institutions have developed a method to monitor the digestion of DNA nanostructures by endonucleases in real time. This study provides insights into tunable drug delivery and new design paradigms for DNA-based drug-carriers, with potential applications in cancer treatment.

SourceAalto University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 1, 2021

Engineers place molecule-scale devices in precise orientation

Researchers develop technique to precisely place and orient DNA-based molecular devices on chip surfaces. The method enables thousands of molecules to be reliably oriented, opening up new possibilities for applications like DNA sequencing and protein measurement.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2021

DNA origami enables fabricating superconducting nanowires

Researchers have successfully fabricated superconducting nanowires using DNA origami, allowing for precise addressability and potential applications in nanoelectronics and novel devices. The technique reduces resistance by 90% at low temperatures, enabling the creation of 3D superconducting architectures.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateJan 19, 2021

NIST publishes a beginner's guide to DNA origami

DNA origami is a technique that folds long DNA strands to create mini 3D structures for biosensors and drug delivery. A new guide from NIST provides a comprehensive resource for researchers to design efficient nanostructures using state-of-the-art tools.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology·DateJan 8, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Making 3D nanosuperconductors with DNA

Scientists have developed a platform using DNA self-assembly to create 3D nanoscale architectures that can conduct electricity without resistance. These structures can be used in signal amplifiers, ultrasensitive magnetic field sensors, and other quantum devices.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 2020

Klimov studying origami antibodies for threat sensing

Klimov is developing a computational platform to design antibody-antigen interfaces based on DNA origami. The goal is to predict high-affinity peptide sequences that bind to tetanus toxin, targeting structured or unstructured antigen regions.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 16, 2020

Unraveling the genome in 3D-space

Scientists have developed a method to create high-resolution maps of contact points between replicated chromosomes, providing insights into the molecular machinery regulating DNA conformation and repair. This breakthrough could shed light on the mechanics underlying genome transport during cell division.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 23, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A new twist on DNA origami

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new type of meta-DNA structure that can be used to engineer sophisticated nanoscale structures and devices. The meta-DNA self-assembly concept has opened up new possibilities for optoelectronics, including information storage and encryption, as well as synthetic biology.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 7, 2020

New method of detecting illnesses including coronavirus and cystic fibrosis

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a new system to detect diseases, including coronavirus and cystic fibrosis, by examining individual molecules in blood. The method can compile a detectable signal from just a few biomarkers in just a few minutes, potentially speeding up testing and providing accurate results.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2020

Making the DNA melt curve more accurate

Scientists at NIST have found a way to significantly enhance the accuracy of key information on how heat affects the stability of folded DNA structures. The novel mathematical algorithm automatically accounts for unknown effects, allowing scientists to design durable and complex structures made from DNA.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical Biochemistry·DateAug 19, 2020

Engineers use 'DNA origami' to identify vaccine design rules

Researchers used DNA origami to create virus-like particles coated with HIV proteins, eliciting a strong immune response from human B cells. The study found that the optimal spacing between antigens is wider than previously thought, contradicting common assumptions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 29, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Protecting DNA origami for anti-cancer drug delivery

Researchers develop peptoid-coated DNA origami that maintains structural integrity and functionality in different physiological environments, enabling potential use in delivering anti-cancer drugs and proteins. The method involves designing peptoids to stabilize DNA origami, with the brush-type architecture achieving optimal protection.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Zigzag DNA

Researchers at Delft University of Technology have discovered a new loop structure in DNA, called the 'Z loop', which differs from traditional single loops and occurs more frequently. This discovery sheds light on how condensin proteins fold DNA into a zigzag structure through complex interactions.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020
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Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

'Jumping genes' help stabilize DNA folding patterns

Researchers found that jumping genes, also known as transposable elements, play a crucial role in stabilizing the 3D folding patterns of DNA molecules. This discovery contradicts the long-held assumption that the precise order of letters in the DNA sequence dictates the broader structure of the DNA molecule.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 24, 2020

Researchers create synthetic nanopores made from DNA

Scientists successfully created a large synthetic nanopore made from DNA with a functional gating system for sensing and bio-sensing applications. The pore can translocate large protein-sized macromolecules between compartments separated by a lipid bilayer, enabling label-free real-time biosensing of trigger molecules.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2019

Physics: DNA-PAINT super-resolution microscopy at speed

Researchers optimized DNA-PAINT for faster image acquisition using orthogonal DNA sequences, achieving sub-10nm spatial resolution and multiplexing capabilities. This improvement allows for biomedically relevant high-throughput studies, such as diagnostic applications.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 11, 2019
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Scientists develop DNA microcapsules with built-in ion channels

Researchers have developed DNA-based microcapsules that can act as ion channels, enabling the creation of artificial cells and molecular robots. This breakthrough could accelerate advances in nanotechnology and biomedical applications.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 18, 2019

A new spin on DNA

The team, led by Xiaowei Zhuang, captured the first recorded rotational steps of a molecular motor as it moved from one DNA base pair to another. They used DNA origami to build molecule-sized propellers that allowed them to visualize the motor's movement.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJul 17, 2019

DNA origami to scale-up molecular motors

Researchers at Hokkaido University successfully assembled a larger biomolecular motor system using DNA origami, overcoming previous scalability challenges. The system, combining fibrous microtubules and motor protein kinesins, exhibits dynamic contraction when energized by ATP.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 31, 2019

DNA design that anyone can do

Researchers developed a computer program that translates free-form drawings into DNA structures, enabling users to create complex nanostructures for various applications. The 'PERDIX' program uses a mathematical approach to automate the design process, making it accessible to anyone with basic drawing skills.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2019
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

DNA on auto-pilot

New research allows for fully automated design of DNA staple sequences, enabling the creation of complex nanostructures with ease. This breakthrough advances the field of DNA origami, opening up new possibilities for applications in material science and medicine.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2019

Researchers make world's smallest tic-tac-toe game board with DNA

Caltech scientists develop dynamic DNA nanostructures, enabling the creation of a microscopic tic-tac-toe game board with reconfigurable parts. The technology combines self-assembling tiles and strand displacement to allow for molecular self-reconfiguration, paving the way for more sophisticated nanomachines.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2018