New ‘nanoneedles’ puncture cell membrane to release payload on command.

Synthetic biology uses natural molecules and assembles them into a system that acts unnaturally.  The ability to control the transfer of molecules through cellular membranes is an important function in synthetic biology.  However, building self-contained modules with designer properties, and then integrating them into host cells without adverse effects, is an enormous challenge.  Now, a study from researchers at Harvard University introduces a novel mechanical … Continue reading New ‘nanoneedles’ puncture cell membrane to release payload on command.