A groundbreaking nanorobotic device, the NanoGripper, has been developed by researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, offering a novel approach to detecting and preventing the virus that causes COVID-19. Constructed from a single piece of DNA, this innovative tool mimics the functionality of a human hand, with the capability to grasp and manipulate viral particles with remarkable precision. The NanoGripper’s potential extends beyond COVID-19 detection, promising targeted drug delivery for conditions like cancer and applications in preventive medicine.
The research, led by Professor Xing Wang of bioengineering and chemistry, was published in Science Robotics. It describes the NanoGripper’s design, inspired by the gripping mechanics of human hands and bird claws. Featuring four flexible fingers and a palm, the nanorobot is folded from a continuous DNA strand using advanced DNA origami techniques. Each finger is equipped with three joints, allowing precise movement based on programmable DNA scaffolding.
Design and Functionality
The DNA material was chosen for its unique structural properties—strength, flexibility, and programmability—making it ideal for constructing nanoscale devices. The NanoGripper’s fingers are embedded with DNA aptamers, specialized regions programmed to bind to molecular targets. In its first application, the NanoGripper was designed to detect the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus. Upon binding to the target, the fingers bend, wrapping securely around the virus.
At the opposite end of the gripper, a “wrist” allows attachment to surfaces or larger biomedical platforms, enhancing its versatility. This feature was harnessed by integrating the NanoGripper with a photonic crystal sensor system, developed in collaboration with Professor Brian Cunningham from Illinois’ electrical and computer engineering department.
Revolutionizing Virus Detection
The combined system created a rapid COVID-19 detection platform with sensitivity comparable to the gold-standard qPCR tests used in hospitals. Unlike traditional tests that require extensive time, the NanoGripper-based method delivers results within 30 minutes. The detection process is straightforward: when the NanoGripper captures the virus, a fluorescent molecule emits light upon activation by an LED or laser. Concentrated fluorescence on each virus particle allows for individual virus counting.
“Our test simplifies and accelerates the process by directly detecting the intact virus,” Cunningham explained. “The fluorescence produced by the NanoGripper-virus interaction enables accurate detection in record time.”
Applications in Preventive Medicine
Beyond diagnostics, the NanoGripper has demonstrated potential in blocking viruses from infecting cells. In cell culture experiments, multiple NanoGrippers encased the COVID-19 virus, preventing its spike proteins from binding to cellular receptors and thereby halting infection. Wang suggested this capability could lead to preventive treatments, such as an antiviral nasal spray. This spray, targeting the nasal cavity—a hotspot for respiratory viruses—could prevent viruses like COVID-19 and influenza from entering host cells.
Expanding Potential
The NanoGripper’s design is adaptable to other viruses, including influenza, HIV, and hepatitis B. Furthermore, its programmability allows it to recognize specific cell markers, opening avenues for targeted drug delivery. For instance, the device could deliver cancer treatments directly to cells marked by specific tumor proteins.
“This innovation holds immense potential, extending far beyond the applications we’ve demonstrated,” Wang stated. “With modifications to its 3D structure, stability, and targeting mechanisms, the NanoGripper could revolutionize cancer treatment and diagnostics.”
Reference:
1. Lifeng Zhou. et al. Bioinspired designer DNA NanoGripper for virus sensing and potential inhibition. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adi2084
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