The NanoGripper, a groundbreaking DNA-based nanorobot, has the potential to transform diagnostics, prevention, and targeted therapies by swiftly detecting and blocking viruses, including COVID-19.
Crafted from a single strand of DNA, the NanoGripper features a tiny, four-fingered “hand” designed to capture the virus responsible for COVID-19, enabling highly sensitive and rapid detection. According to researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, this nanorobot can even block viral particles from infecting cells. It can also be programmed to target other viruses or identify cell surface markers, making it ideal for applications such as targeted drug delivery, including in cancer treatments.
Led by Xing Wang, a professor of bioengineering and chemistry, the researchers presented their work in Science Robotics. Drawing inspiration from the gripping power of human hands and bird claws, the team designed the NanoGripper with four bendable fingers and a palm, all integrated into one nanostructure. Each finger, which has three joints, is engineered using DNA’s unique properties of strength, flexibility, and programmability.
The fingers of the NanoGripper are equipped with DNA aptamers, which are programmed to bind to specific molecular targets, like the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus. Upon binding, the fingers bend to wrap around the virus. This function allows the NanoGripper to serve as an effective sensor, capturing viruses and triggering a fluorescent response for rapid detection. Wang’s team collaborated with experts in biosensing to create a quick 30-minute COVID-19 test that matches the sensitivity of traditional qPCR tests used in hospitals.
Beyond diagnostics, the NanoGripper could be used in preventive medicine. Researchers demonstrated that when NanoGrippers were introduced to cell cultures exposed to COVID-19, the grippers blocked the viral spike proteins from interacting with cell surface receptors, preventing infection. Wang proposes that such a technology could be used as a preventive therapeutic in the form of a nasal spray, which would prevent respiratory viruses from infecting cells in the nose.
Additionally, the NanoGripper could be adapted to target other viruses like influenza, HIV, or hepatitis B, and could be engineered for precision drug delivery. The grippers could be programmed to recognize cancer markers, delivering treatments directly to target cells. Wang envisions even broader applications in cancer treatment and diagnostics, pointing to the power of soft nanorobotics and the potential for future advancements.
