Intracellular dynamics probed with nanotubes

The movement of nanotube-labelled kinesin-1 motor proteins in cells was analysed using fluorescence microscopy.  At timeframes above 100 ms, researchers observed a regime of kinesin molecular motion different from thermal motion or directed motor activity.  In this regime, the kinesins were bound to the microtubule network, and moved randomly but remained locally constrained.  Their dynamics reflected nonequilibrium fluctuations in the microtubule network.  These fluctuations were driven by cytoplasmic myosin activity generating a random stirring effect. 

High-resolution mapping of intracellular fluctuations using carbon nanotubes; N. Fakhri et al; Science; Vol 344(6187); p 1031 

http://www.sciencemag.org/content/344/6187/1031.abstract

Graphenes in biology

Kostas Kostarelos and Kostya Novoselov discuss the difficulties of investigating how graphenes interact with biological systems. This family of materials can be produced in different ways, which control their thickness, size and surface functionalization all of which will modify cell-material interactions. Article also touches on issues of biodegradation and safety.

http://www.sciencemag.org/content/344/6181/261.full

Exploring the interface of graphene and biology; K. Kostarelos and K Novoselov; Science; Vol. 344 no. 6181 pp. 261-263; 2014.