Electrically Conductive DNA
Genetic material can be used to create computers
A group of researchers from the HZDR laboratory (Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf) and the University of Paderborn has made progress in creating self-assembling computer elements. They managed to conduct electricity through gold-plated nanowires that independently create themselves from individual strands of DNA. The results of the study are described in Langmuir (Teschome et al., Temperature-Dependent Charge Transport through Individually Contacted DNA Origami-Based Au Nanowires – VM).
Using an electron microscope, experts have shown that nanomeric structures connect 2 electrical contacts.
"According to our measurements, these thin wires conduct current," explained Dr. Arthur Erbe.
To obtain wires, scientists combined one long strand of genetic material with shorter segments of DNA through base pairs, thus obtaining double strands. Using this method, the structures take the desired shape.
A drawing from the press release of HZDR Computers Made of Genetic Material? – VM
"With technology reminiscent of the Japanese art of origami, we can create microscopic patterns," explained a researcher from HZDR. "The technique is also suitable for producing microchips from molecules and atoms."
The proposed method is designed to turn the production of electronic components "upside down". Now, according to the researchers, manufacturers usually use a "top-down" method: pieces are cut off from a large base until the desired structure is obtained. Soon the approach will become impossible due to the ongoing miniaturization. The new method, on the contrary, is focused on nature: molecules are assembled into complex structures due to self-organization processes.
To increase the electrical conductivity of the genetic material, the team placed gold nanoparticles on the DNA. Using electron beam lithography, the researchers made contact with individual wires. The efficiency of electrical conductivity depended on the temperature, the charge dropped with its decrease. Despite this, the researchers were satisfied with the results.
Drawing from an article in Langmuir – VM
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru
11.11.2016