Currently, such technologies using the single-molecule method are available only in a few
Today, the developers have published all the assembly instructions and software necessary for the operation of the microscope online .The goal is to make the "single-molecule method " available to laboratories around the world.
The team of scientists spent a relatively modest £ 40,000 (over 4 million rubles) to create a kit, which usually costs around £ 400,000 (40.6 million rubles).
The microscope is designed with little preparation before use, and the lasers are shielded so that it can be used under normal lighting conditions.
We wanted to democratize single-use molecule measurements to make this method available to laboratories around the world.Now, each lab has a plan and software to build the necessary equipment for themselves without spending too much money.
Dr Tim Craggs, Lead Research Fellow at the University of Sheffield
Many medical diagnostic tools are movingin the direction of increased sensitivity, and there is nothing more sensitive than the detection of individual molecules, scientists explain. In fact, many of the new COVID-19 tests that are currently being developed are working at this level. The new tool is a good starting point for further development towards new medical diagnostics.
The Craggs Laboratory at the University of Sheffield is alreadyused smfBox in her research to study fundamental biological processes such as detecting DNA damage. A deeper understanding of this area will lead to more effective treatments for diseases such as cancer.
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