Scientists have created a unique nanorobot made of DNA to fight viruses
Researchers from the University of Illinois have presented an innovative device - a nanorobot created from DNA fragments. According to the authors of the project, it is capable of catching viruses.
The robot was named NanoGripper. It is made in the shape of a hand and has miniature dimensions. The device not only interacts with viruses, but also recognizes cell surfaces, blocks certain particles and can deliver drugs directly to target cells.
The NanoGripper consists of 4 movable fingers, each with 3 joints. At the tips of these fingers are DNA aptamers designed to find specific targets, and on the other side are attachments for various surfaces.
According to the scientists, the NanoGripper has the potential to target various viruses such as influenza, HIV and hepatitis B. It can also be used for targeted drug delivery, for example, to recognize cancer markers and inject the necessary drugs into target cells