General description:
Introduction
In this project, we will INITIATE the development of a device for single-molecule DNA sequencing. This nano-device will be built around a biological molecular motor, which is able to move the DNA whose sequence is to be read. As an integral part of this development, we will also use the molecular motor to PRODUCE a nano-actuator capable of moving a magnetic nano-particle, attached to the DNA, past a sensor. Such a device will be a molecular magnetic switch linking the biological world (through the fuel used by the motor – ATP) to the silicon-based world of microelectronics through detection of the moving magnetic particle. This switch is likely to have a wide-range of uses including many uses in ‘Lab-on-a-Chip’ technology (biosensor, simple system for moving fluids and molecules between compartments and a miniature pump that also activates other microelectronic devices). In addition, such devices may also eventually become ‘implantable’ and could make use of ATP generated during muscle movements to activate computers (e.g. for disabled people) through to control of advanced artificial limbs and other more complex devices in the long-term future.

The development of these two devices is intrinsically linked through the need to overcome entropy-driven coiling in the DNA substrate. The magnetic bead attached to the DNA will allow the 'string' of DNA to be aligned in one dimension, allowing for easier reading of the sequence of bases. In addition, the ability to ‘stretch’ the DNA in this fashion will produce a ‘re-setting’ mechanism after DNA translocation, which will allow the device to re-read the DNA sequence improving fidelity and increasing the parallelism of the system.

Throughout the program of work regular Consortium Workshops will be held. The first Workshop was on 27th January 2003 in Portsmouth.

The Workplan is described as a series of Deliverables.