URBANA-CHAMPAIGN, Ill., Feb. 21 (UPI) -- University of Illinois scientists say they have discovered carbon nanotubes can be used to target specific DNA sequences.
The researchers at the university's Urbana-Champaign campus recently reported DNA-wrapped carbon nanotubes could serve as sensors in living cells. Now they report potential applications for the new sensors range from rapid detection of hazardous biological agents to simpler and more efficient forensic identification.
Engineering Professor Michael Strano and his students previously reported single-walled carbon nanotubes coated with DNA could be placed in living cells and detect trace amounts of harmful contaminants. They say recent research has taken the technique a significant step further.
"We have successfully demonstrated the optical detection of selective DNA hybridization on the surface of a nanotube," said Strano. "This work opens possibilities for new types of nanotube-based sensing and sequencing technologies."
The study has been accepted for publication in the journal Nano Letters and posted on the journal's Web site.
