Scientists from the University of Montréal have produced the world’s smallest antenna using DNA. The system, which is only 5 nanometers long, works like a two-way radio, receives light in one color and re-emits this light in a different color depending on the structure of the protein it is attached to.
The scientists published their work in the journal Nature Methods. The team used a fluorescent molecule with DNA.
DNA is easier to use because it is an excellent building block for nanostructures and nanomachines by nature. The most important innovation is that the receiving part of the antenna also works as a sensor that can measure what the protein is doing. Using DNA also allows this method to have versatility. The chemistry of DNA is relatively simple and programmable. Therefore, antennas can be created to suit different research needs, depending on the protein in question.
“DNA-based nanoantennas can be synthesized in different lengths and flexibility to optimize their functionality,” said lead author of the paper, Scott Harroun. By carefully tuning the nanoantenna design, we created an antenna five nanometers long, which emits a specific signal as the protein performs its biological function.”
The fluorescent communication method has many applications, and the team says monitoring this communication does not require innovative laboratory equipment. Conventional spectrofluorometers, common in many laboratories, can also be used when the nanoantenna is inserted.
14015
