active | ISG

Enzymatic nanomotors carrying a DNA cargo

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

A physical theory of the biological world requires that we quantitavely understand Active matter. These are systems that are maintained out-of-equilibrium and are capable of sustained motion, while they consume energy from their environment.

Molecular motors (kinesin, myosin, etc.) are examples of active matter at the nanoscale that convert ATP into mechanical energy in an environment dominated by thermal fluctuations and viscous forces. What are the physical constraints we have to overcome to manufacture devices of comparable complexity? . From first principles, we make use of simple building blocks, such as nanoparticles, enzymes and nucleic acids in order to self-assemble nanodevices capable of mimicking molecular motors, the workhorses of cells. With the tools of DNA nanotechnology we can self-assemble nanostructures from bottom-up (DNA Origami) and functionalise site-specifically these nanostructures with nanomotors. We use catalytic nanoparticles, as well as enzymes to help reach propulsion that goes beyond diffusion.

Bottom-up synthesis of catalytic nanomotors

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Progress in nanotechnology has enabled the synthesis of active particles that can harness chemical energy and translate it into useful work. Catalytic self-propelled motors have implications for understanding out-of-equilibrium systems and have potential applications in active transport at the nanoscale, where they can be used as motors and pumps. Although much research has been done on micron-sized motors, progress in catalytic nanomotors of sub 100?nm is still in its infancy. These nanosized motors are of great importance for future molecular transport at the cellular level because they operate at length scales at which protein motors work. This opinion article focusses on recent advances in the synthesis of catalytic nanomotors and experimental strategies to measure their self-propulsion, which differ from that of micromotors. Enzymatic and metallic nanomotors are surveyed, together with various theoretical models for self-propulsion. Solutions to current challenges are proposed, which include a chemical synthesis approach, new characterisation of motor activity and potential uses of nanomotors in nanomedicine.

Nanoimpact voltammetry of enzymatic nanomotors

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000

DNA autocatalytic chemical waves

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000