Nanoneedle Delivers Quantum Dots to Cell Nucleus

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a nanoneedle that they can direct into the nucleus of a cell. After doing so, they release “quantum dots” into the nucleus, with which they can monitor the nucleus’ activity. These quantum dots are nanoparticles that are made of a semiconductor, and do not cause the problems that scientists have run into in the past when trying to monitor cellular activity with biological materials, such as proteins, and allows the cell to carry on with its normal activity while being observed. The quantum dots are delivered through a 50nm wide, gold plated nanotube. The gold allows the needle to be used as an “electrode probe” which can release the particles when given the signal. This is a huge advance because, instead of having the capability to release the particles at a certain point in time, previous techniques required the particles to be diffused through the cell.

The professor who developed this nanoneedle technique said that "This technique allows us to physically access the internal environment inside a cell,” and that "It's almost like a surgical tool that allows us to 'operate' inside the cell." All of this can be done without damaging the cell, as was usually done in previous techniques as well.

I found this article interesting because this shows that we are making progress towards creating nanobots, which, as we are discussing in our design groups, have the possibility to save lives.

Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/09/100927131716.htm