The Royal Society of Chemistry: Meet The Molecular Ratcheteers  

The development of ‘building blocks for the creation of new nanomachines’ could transform our world.

A team of researchers from the University of Manchester, University of Luxembourg, University of Maine and East China Normal University, known as the Molecular Ratcheteers, has invented engineering concepts that will help unlock the potential of the nanoworld.

The processes the team analysed are critical to understanding how life works on a very fundamental level. At the same time, these processes have the potential to be used for intrinsically new approaches and drive advancements in nanotechnology.

Molecular ratchets could lead to a variety of real-life applications, especially in the fields of nanotechnology and materials science. As building blocks for the creation of new nanomachines such as molecular motors, pumps and switches, they could make improvements in everything from the delivery of medicines to information processing.

The work to control the dynamics of molecular and supramolecular systems has great potential for the advancement of many fields of research.

One example is the development of artificial molecular enzymes, which could have functions and operational processes similar to biological enzymes, but with the added benefit of being able to operate in non-aqueous environments. This would open up a world of possibilities for industrial processes, the delivery of medicines and more.

Cambridge Filmworks have partnered with The Royal Society of Chemistry to showcase the work of their annual RSC Horizon Prizes winners.

To find out more about the Royal Society of Chemistry Horizon Prizes, please visit: RSC Horizon Prizes

Cambridge Filmworks

Cambridge Film Animation and VIdeo Productions

www.cambridgefilmworks.com