'Nanosprings' may help detect cancer
( 2003-11-11 11:24) (Agencies)
A tiny structure developed by
US scientists could be used to detect single molecules, or as a key component in
nanodevices, Cnet reported Monday.
Scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology have recently developed a
tiny "nanospring" structure that could be used to detect individual molecules,
possibly creating an extremely sensitive method of detecting cancer.
Georgia Tech's Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology said the nanosprings
are smaller than any comparable structure, including the "nanobelts" developed
by the institute in 2001.
Much research into the area of nanotechnology or devices constructed on a
molecular scale has focused on creating smaller and more-efficient microchips.
Nanosprings and nanobelts could make an impact on an area that includes devices
such as sensors, which interact with forces and molecules in the surrounding
environment.
Georgia Tech researchers are currently developing the first application for
the nanospring, a micron-size "pill" that would distribute millions of the
nanosprings throughout the body.
When the structures encountered even a single cancer-protein molecule, they
would send a radio signal through the skin, the researchers
said.
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