In light of the recent post on the need for open-source sensing
arising from nanotech-based environmental monitoring, it is
interesting to note this recent progress in building a nanotech-
powered biosensor powered by molecular motors. From the
University of Florida, via AAAS EurekAlert “Molecular forklifts
overcome obstacle to ‘smart dust’“: Algae is a livid green
giveaway of nutrient pollution in a lake. Scientists would love
to reproduce that action in tiny particles that would turn
different colors if exposed to biological weapons, food spoilage
or signs of poor health in the blood. Now, University of Florida
engineering researchers have tapped the working parts of cells
to clear a major hurdle to creating such “smart dust.” The feat,
which signifies a new approach to technology known as the “lab
on a chip,” is [published] in the journal Nature Nanotechnology
[abstract]. “Instead of just changing one part of an existing
system, we have a new and different way of doing things,” said
Henry Hess, a UF assista