Scientists have created the world's smallest biomechanical bond from peptides

The team of scientists described in detail the library of such structures created in their laboratory —two

interconnected rings, ring on a dumbbell,a garland and a double lasso. Each size is approximately one billionth of a meter in diameter. The study also demonstrates that some of these structures can switch between at least two forms. This property can be used to create a biomolecular switch. The results are published in the journal Nature Chemistry.

Researchers at Princeton University have created the world's smallest interconnected biomechanical structure. Credit: Hendrik W. Schroeder and A. James Link.

“We have built many structures that were not previouslyNo one succeeded,” said A. James Link, professor of chemical and biological engineering and the lead author of the study. “These are the smallest thread-like or interconnected structures that can be made from peptides.”

To create these peptide structuresresearchers used genetic engineering methods. This allowed them to manipulate individual amino acids and force the peptide to self-assemble into new forms. The scientists also avoided the need to use harsh solvents and metal ions. They are typically used to create similar synthetic molecular architectures.

Read more

Japan unveils new engine that will allow rockets to explore deep space

Two new dinosaur species discovered in China

There is a method of using quantum computers in everyday conditions