30 May UW–Madison scientists develop most sensitive way to observe single molecules
Photo by Carlos Saavedra/UW–Madison
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison have developed the most sensitive method yet for detecting and profiling a single molecule — unlocking a new tool that holds potential for better understanding how the building blocks of matter interact with each other. The new method could have implications for pursuits as varied as drug discovery and the development of advanced materials.
The technical achievement, detailed this month in the journal Nature, marks a significant advance in the burgeoning field of observing individual molecules without the aid of fluorescent labels.