Researchers utilized DNA origami to engineer nanoscale turbines with potential applications in drug discovery.
“We wanted to reproduce one of the most spectacular biological machines—ATP synthase, which is driven by an electric field.”Nanoscale turbines, inspired by ATP synthase, utilize DNA origami for precise construction and operate autonomously.
In a first, a global team of scientists has developed an autonomous DNA turbine that can operate in physiological conditions. The research ATP synthase can be likened to a nanoscale turbine. When protons flow across the cell membrane, it generates mechanical rotation. This mechanical rotation, similar to the rotation of a turbine, provides the energy required to synthesize ATP.
The entire process relies on the base-pair interactions in the scaffold and staple strands, achieved through annealing. In this process, researchers carefully control the temperature of the solution containing the scaffold and staple strands, causing the strands to come together and form the desired nanostructure.The researchers chose to use DNA origami as it offers high precision and control over the shape of the nanostructure created.
Biological systems often consist of ion gradients, such as the proton gradient in the case of ATP synthase. The ion gradient creates a difference in, like the two ends of a battery. This entire thing occurs inside a nanopore , where the DNA turbine is.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Researchers uncover human DNA repair by nuclear metamorphosisResearchers at the University of Toronto have discovered a DNA repair mechanism that advances understanding of how human cells stay healthy, and which could lead to new treatments for cancer and premature aging.
Read more »
Researchers create first artificial, modifiable cells with programmable DNAThe achievement holds significant promise for advancements in regenerative medicine, drug delivery methods, and diagnostic technologies.
Read more »
Clumps of an otherwise non-toxic molecule inhibit strep's DNA-cleaving enzymes, researchers discoverAn entirely new approach to inhibiting DNA-cleaving enzymes works through the aggregation of an otherwise non-toxic molecule. This Kobe University discovery may lead to a much-needed method for curbing Streptococcus growth.
Read more »
Researchers develop a way to project holographs on an iPhone displayAlan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon.
Read more »
Researchers visualize quantum effects in electron wavesOne of the most fundamental interactions in physics is that of electrons and light. In an experiment, scientists have now managed to observe what is known as the Kapitza-Dirac effect for the first time in full temporal resolution. This effect was first postulated over 90 years ago, but only now are its finest details coming to light.
Read more »
Link Between Aldehydes and Premature Aging Discovered by ResearchersResearchers at Nagoya University have linked aldehydes, byproducts from alcohol, pollution, and smoke, to premature aging and DNA damage, proposing potential strategies to mitigate aging effects and highlighting the impact of environmental factors on health.
Read more »