Scientists have come up with a new kind of molecular motor constructed from actual DNA that could have a major impact on how drugs are administered to the human body.

Tests using the invention showed that it was able to transport a nanoparticle down the length of a carbon nanotube.

The tiny device is comprised of a core and two arms located above and below. The purpose of this design is to gather energy from strands of RNA as it travels the length of the tube. Two types of fluorescent imaging systems are used to track the motor's movement.

The researchers are now working out a way to get the motor to speed up down the tube. If all goes well, this could lead to future designs capable of performing a range of a complex tasks, including drug delivery, manufacturing and chemical processing.

[National Monitor]