Human cells have special receptors that detect mechanical movement and help a person perceive pain and breathe. Mechanical action on a microscopic scale triggers appropriate biological signals at the cellular level. Some are necessary for the normal functioning of the body, while others lead to diseases. Violations of cellular sensitivity are associated with many diseases, especially oncology. A nanorobot made of DNA molecules whose size does not exceed the scale of a human cell will aid in the study of cellular mechanisms.

What is known about the building

As the researchers noted in their report, the programmable robot was created on the principle of DNA origami: a nano-level molecule was “folded” into a complex shape, and then a molecule recognizing mechanoreceptors was added to it – the ends of sensitive nerve fibers that respond to mechanical pressure or other mechanical effects. can direct them to a cell type and activate their receptors to study biological processes. This robot has a remote activation mode.

The nanometer size of the new device allows for force to be applied and controlled with a resolution of one piconewton – the first time a man-made self-assembled object based on DNA has been able to exert force with such precision.

Nanorobot with DNA / Photo from University of Montpellier

With the help of the robot, it was possible to activate the mechanoreceptors. So the scientists discovered that when force is applied at the cellular level, key signaling pathways are activated. In the future, it will be possible to do the same with other biological and pathological processes.

Unfortunately, the robot has a serious vulnerability: Because it is made up of DNA fragments—a total of three structures—it is susceptible to enzymes that destroy it. Therefore, the scientists say the next step is to study how to modify the robot’s surface to be less susceptible to the action of enzymes. Additionally, scientists will find other modes of robot activation using a magnetic field.