Synthetic Biology

New RNA barcoding method tracks gene transfer in microbial communities

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In the microscopic world of bacteria, gene transfer is a powerful mechanism that can alter cellular function, drive antibiotic resistance and even shape entire ecosystems. Now an interdisciplinary group of researchers at Rice University has developed an innovative RNA “barcoding” method to track these genetic exchanges in microbial communities, providing new insights into how genes … Read more

DNA Motors Reach 30 nm/s Speeds

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Can DNA-nanoparticle motors get up to speed with motor proteins? Credit: Illustration by Takanori Harashima Researchers leverage their understanding of molecular motors to improve nanoscale artificial motors, aiming to bridge the speed gap between artificial motors and motor proteins. DNA-nanoparticle motors are exactly what they sound like: tiny artificial motors that harness the structures of … Read more