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Mol Switch: an EU-funded project.The Consortium: Keith Firman, John Gallop, Cees Dekker, David Bensimon, Roberto Favilla and Marie Weiserova
Project Summary The success
of the Human Genome Sequencing Project means that DNA sequence information is
one of the greatest stores of information and is now of interest to
individuals. We will initiate
work to construct a single-molecule DNA-sequencing device, but closely linked
to this development process, we will also construct a nano-switch, based on a
biological molecular motor and a moving magnetic bead.
This device will provide a link between the biological world and the
silicon-based microelectronics world. Such
a device is expected to find longer-term uses in the development of a wide
range of devices, from biosensors to 'new generation' prosthetics and
artificial limbs, constructed with controlling computer devices.
In addition, the magnetic bead, attached to DNA, can be used in the
single-molecule DNA sequencing apparatus (to overcome coiling due to entropy)
and for monitoring the movement of the DNA molecule.
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© University of
Portsmouth |
This project was
funded by an EU grant from the