A new single-molecule tool to observe enzymes at work

Scientists have created an innovative tool to directly detect the delicate, single-molecule interactions between DNA and enzymatic proteins. Their approach provides a new platform to view and record these nanoscale interactions in real time.

Carbon nanotube rectenna converts light to DC current (w/video)

Using nanometer-scale components, researchers have demonstrated the first optical rectenna, a device that combines the functions of an antenna and a rectifier diode to convert light directly into DC current.

New method for building on an atomic scale

Scientists have pioneered a new way of manipulating several thousand atoms at a time, paving the way for building nanoscale electronic devices more quickly and easily at room temperature.

Metamaterial absorbers for infrared inspection technologies

A metamaterial absorber capable of highly sensitive infrared detection enhances the spectroscopy of tiny molecular details.

Biomimetic dental prosthesis

Material researchers are developing a procedure that allows them to mimic the complex fine structure of biological composite materials, such as teeth or seashells. They can thus create synthetic materials that are as hard and tough as their natural counterparts.