Propeling Nanobots

-As all of us are working on our nanobot project, I thought this article might be useful to some groups-

A big problem with manufacturing nanobots for use in the medical field is getting the nanobot to reach its target site. Researchers at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine are examining sperm cells in hope of recreating an artificial device that can harness the driving power in these sperm. Sperm cells have a sort of "dual-engine system" which give them their extreme power in their movement. One of these so called "engines" is located in the mid part of the sperm cell which provides the majority of its power, but another other "engine" is located in the tail of the sperm giving it an extra boost of power.

The Researchers at Cornell University aren't worried about the final product, but rather are interested in the energy delivery system in these sperm cells. As of now, the researchers have determined that there are 10 enzymes that are present in this glycolytic pathway. They have started to attach these enzymes to nickel ions and so far they have successfully binded 3 of the ten enzymes to the nickel. They are now working on getting the other seven enzymes to bind to the nickel in hopes to create an ion that is fueled by "sperm power".

http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2007/12/27/sperm-power.html


Patrick Long
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