Bacterial armor holds clues for self-assembling nanostructures

Imagine thousands of copies of a single protein organizing into a coat of chainmail armor that protects the wearer from harsh and ever-changing environmental conditions. That is the case for many microorganisms. In a new study, researchers have uncovered key details in this natural process that can be used for the self-assembly of nanomaterials into complex two- and three-dimensional structures.

Revolutionary new probe zooms in on cancer cells

The hand-held Raman spectroscopy probe enables surgeons, for the first time, to accurately detect virtually all invasive brain cancer cells in real time during surgery. The probe is superior to existing technology and could set a new standard for successful brain cancer surgery.

Scientists offer new understanding how metallofullerene is formed

The findings could help pave the way for metallofullerene-based applications that range from biomedicine to renewable energy.

Biomedical applications of gold-oxoborate nanocomposites

Scientists present the synthesis and characterization of a new inorganic nanostructured functional material, BOA, comprising gold nanoparticles and oxoborates. It has the form of small building blocks composed of gold nanoparticles embedded in a polyoxoborate matrix.

Molecular Dynamics unravel the dependence of friction on the atomistic details of surfaces

Researchers have investigated the friction properties of liquid water at the interface with graphene and with an hexagonal boron nitride sheet, using ab initio molecular dynamics for the first time.

Making a better nanofiber wound dressing - with fish skin

With a low price tag and mild flavor, tilapia has become a staple dinnertime fish for many Americans. Now it could have another use: helping to heal our wounds.

Tattoo-like sensor can detect glucose levels without a painful finger prick

Scientists have developed the first ultra-thin, flexible device that sticks to skin like a rub-on tattoo and can detect a person's glucose levels.

Better batteries inspired by lowly snail shells

Biological molecules can latch onto nanoscale components and lock them into position to make high performing Li-ion battery electrodes.

Researchers publish the first compendium on attosecond nanophysics

A steadily growing treasure of knowledge has accumulated in the past years on attosecond nanophysics of nanostructured solids, which has, so far, not been sorted and structured. This has now been rectified by two physics professors.

Heating targeted cancer nano-drugs increases uptake in tumour cells

Scientists have found that gentle heating of targeted nano-sized drug parcels more effectively in deliver them to tumour cells - resulting in an improvement in survival rates.

A force controlled patch clamp of beating cardiac cells

Scientists developed a force controlled patch clamp based on the FluidFM technology. Its ability to obtain simultaneous electrophysiological and mechanical information will render it a valuable tool in the field of mechanotransduction.

Nanotechnology applications for tissue engineering

Written by renowned scientists from academia and industry, this book covers the recent developments, trends and innovations in the application of nanotechnologies in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Live bacterium depicted using X-ray laser

An international team of scientists has succeeded, for the first time, in depicting intact live bacteria with an X-ray laser. This technique can give researchers a clearer understanding of the complex world of cells.