News & Views in 2011

A thin layer of double-stranded DNA on a gold surface can act as a spin filter.

Coating solid-state nanopores with fluid lipid bilayers can reduce the translocation speeds of molecules and prevent the nanopores from clogging.

Statistical analysis of nanoparticle delivery shows that cells take up nanoparticles randomly and redistribute them to their daughter cells in a biased way.

A statistical model based on a quantitative structure–activity relationship accurately predicts the cytotoxicity of various metal oxide nanoparticles, thus offering a way to rapidly screen nanomaterials and prioritize testing.

The presence of a large bandgap means that a single layer of molybdenum disulphide can be used to make field-effect transistors with high on/off ratios and reasonably high mobilities.

Recyclable membranes that are capable of separating nanoparticles of different sizes can be prepared from supramolecular assemblies that are held together by non-covalent bonds.

Changing the configuration of block copolymer coatings with the aim of circumventing the body's defence system instead triggers the immune system differently.

The formation of an atomic-scale metal filament at the end of an atomic force microscope will pave the way for higher-resolution imaging by AFMs with functionalized tips.

Mechanical vibrations in piezoelectric structures induced by green laser light can efficiently produce electromagnetic radiation at terahertz frequencies.

Metal nanoparticles can be formed inside protein crystals, creating composite materials with potentially bifunctional catalytic properties.

Pre-treating rats with single-walled carbon nanotubes can protect neurons in the brain and enhance the recovery of motor functions after injury.