Scientists map key DNA protein complex at near-atomic resolution

Achievement using cryo-electron microscopy aids gene research and drug development.

Quantum sensors decipher magnetic ordering in a new semiconducting material

For the first time, physicists have successfully imaged spiral magnetic ordering in a multiferroic material. These materials are considered highly promising candidates for future data storage media.

Artificial nanowire 'skin' gives robotic hand a sense of touch

A team of researchers has reported a breakthrough in stretchable electronics that can serve as an artificial skin, allowing a robotic hand to sense the difference between hot and cold, while also offering advantages for a wide range of biomedical devices.

Imaging how magnetism goes surfing

Using advanced dynamic imaging, researchers have been able to visualise deformation (sound) waves in crystals and measured the effect on nanomagnetic elements.

Nanosensors taste fat in live cells

Newly developed nanosensors can measure lipids, or fat molecules, in special compartments within live cells. These sensors have important implications for the development of new therapies to treat many diseases.

First look at a living cell membrane

Neutrons provide the solution to nanoscale examination of living cell membrane and confirm the existence of lipid rafts.

Test strips for cancer detection get upgraded with nanoparticle bling

Platinum-decorated gold nanoparticles with dual functionalities for ultrasensitive colorimetric in vitro diagnostics.

Feed spiders graphene and they produce stronger silk

Researchers have found a way to boost the strength of spider silk using graphene-based materials, paving the way for a novel class of high-performance bionic composites.

Table salt as template for nanomaterials

Researchers demonstrate an organic solvent-free method to prepare a porous PVDF multiwalled carbon nanotube foam using table salt as a sacrificial template.

Bringing atomic mapping to the mainstream

Mapping the internal atomic structure of small particles just got easier thanks to a new computer algorithm and graphical user interface.

Supported liquid metal catalysts - a new generation of reaction accelerators

Researchers have recently discovered how to bypass the known drawbacks of the technical catalysts that are currently in use by means of a new material concept that makes the creation of significantly more efficient catalysts possible.

Multifunctional nano-sized drug carriers based on reactive polypept(o)ides

Scientists have demonstrated that reactive polypept(o)ides constitute ideal building blocks to control morphology and function of carrier systems in a simple but precise manner.

Innovation could mean flexible rechargeable batteries for pacemakers

Engineers have designed a flexible and organic alternative to the rigid batteries that power up medical implants.

Luminescent ceramics for new light sources

In the future this kind of ceramics can replace LEDs; its application will make it possible to significantly reduce the cost of production of automobile headlights and other light sources.

The beam of invisibility

Researchers have developed a new idea for a cloaking technology. A completely opaque material is irradiated from above with a specific wave pattern - with the effect that light waves from the left can now pass through the material without any obstruction.