DNA-Based Nanorobotic Hand Offers Breakthrough in Virus Detection and Prevention
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a programmable DNA nanostructure capable of detecting viruses and blocking infections, with potential applications in diagnostics and targeted drug delivery.
- The NanoGripper, a four-fingered nanorobotic hand made from a single strand of DNA, can detect and inhibit the COVID-19 virus by binding to its spike protein.
- This innovation enables rapid virus detection, delivering results in 30 minutes with sensitivity comparable to gold-standard qPCR tests used in hospitals.
- The NanoGripper could be adapted to target other viruses like influenza, HIV, or hepatitis B and may serve as a preventive tool, such as in anti-viral nasal sprays.
- Potential applications include blocking viruses from entering cells and delivering cancer treatments by targeting specific cell markers with high precision.
- The research, led by bioengineering and chemistry professor Xing Wang, represents a significant advance in nanotechnology and is detailed in the journal Science Robotics.
ScienceDaily 
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