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DNA gripped in nanopores

A team of researchers used nanopores to investigate the movement of DNA in a gel, finding that larger pores reduce resistance and calculations based solely on electrostatic forces did not accurately predict results. The study's unique combination of techniques offers promising developments in single molecule techniques.

DNA sewing machine

Researchers develop unique method to sew long DNA threads into shape using micron-sized hooks controlled by lasers, allowing for high-spatial resolution gene location detection. The technology has potential applications in DNA sequencing and molecular electronics.

SourceRoyal Society of Chemistry·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJul 10, 2008

Astronomy technology brings nanoparticle probes into sharper focus

Researchers used astronomy technology to develop a system that provides more precise images of single molecules tagged with nanoprobes, allowing for detailed information about molecular binding and gene sequences. The technology enables high-speed detection and identification of individual molecules at nanometer resolution.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 19, 2008

Biophysical Society names 2007 award recipients

The Biophysical Society has recognized twelve members with its 2007 awards, honoring their outstanding contributions to biophysics. The awardees include Klaus Gawrisch, Ken A. Dill, and Taekjip Ha, who have made significant impacts in fields such as lipid biophysics, single molecule research, and education.

How plants avoid feeling the burn

Researchers at Arizona State University have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of photoprotection, finding that carotenoids can neutralize excess sunlight energy without oxidation. By measuring the electrical conductance within biomolecules, the team found that carotenoids can handle electron overload in a neutral state.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2006

ASU researchers 'wire' DNA to identify mutations

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a technology that can directly identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DNA molecules using electrical conductivity. The technique involves measuring the electrical conductance of a single DNA molecule, which can reveal sequence information and detect mutations.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2005

UCLA physicists create nanoscale sensor

Giovanni Zocchi's team has created a nanoscale sensor that can detect specific genetic markers in DNA or RNA molecules with high sensitivity. The sensor uses evanescent wave scattering to analyze the conformational changes caused by target molecule binding, allowing for precise detection of single molecules.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2003

Teasing apart the molecules of life

Researchers devise new method combining optical trapping and single-molecule fluorescence to study DNA structural and mechanical changes. This technique allows scientists to study rare molecules essential for life and disease development.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateFeb 24, 2003

Movement of single molecules imaged in live organism

Researchers successfully imaged single molecules of cAMP binding to receptors on the surface of living amoebae, providing new insights into chemotaxis and cell movement. The study's real-time video reveals how receptors behave when detecting cAMP gradients, allowing cells to respond faster to changes in their environment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2001