How ancient sea creatures can inform soft robotics

Feb 13, 2024 (Nanowerk News) Soft robotics is the study of creating robots from soft materials, which has the advantage of flexibility and safety in human interactions. These robots are well-suited for applications ranging from medical devices to enhancing efficiency in various tasks. Additionally, using different forms of robotic movement...

Researchers discover how functional nucleic acid nanoparticles can effectively deceive the immune system

Feb 13, 2024 (Nanowerk Spotlight) Since the discovery of the DNA double helix in 1953, researchers dreamed of leveraging nucleic acids for revolutionary biomedical applications benefiting human health. Early visionaries imagined engineering DNA and RNA as biosensors to detect toxins, vectors to enable gene therapies, and drug-loaded nanoparticles to precisely...

Machine learning enables more directed synthesis of specialized nanoparticles

Feb 13, 2024 (Nanowerk Spotlight) The unique properties of iron oxide nanoparticles hold remarkable potential for applications in areas like energy storage, biomedicine, and catalysis. However, researchers have faced enduring difficulties in achieving reliable control over critical traits such as particle size and crystalline phase during synthesis procedures. The intricate...

Artificial cartilage with the help of 3D printing

Feb 12, 2024 (Nanowerk News) Is it possible to grow tissue in the laboratory, for example to replace injured cartilage? At TU Wien (Vienna), an important step has now been taken towards creating replacement tissue in the lab - using a technique that differs significantly from other methods used around...

Darting around with a tiny brain

Feb 12, 2024 (Nanowerk News) With a brain the size of a pinhead, insects perform fantastic navigational feats. They avoid obstacles and move through small openings. How do they do this, with their limited brain power? Understanding the inner workings of an insect’s brain can help us in our search...