First Person: Building with DNA

摘要

Although DNA is best known for its capacity to store genetic information, the double helix has many other remarkable abilities. It can be woven together to build precisely formed physical structures. It can be used to create chemical sensors for environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and targeted drug delivery. It can even encrypt messages. Yi Lu is using the material in all of these ways. Lu (right), a professor of chemistry at the University of Illinois and a Sigma Xi Distinguished Lecturer, recently sat down with American Scientist managing editor Fenella Sounders to discuss his innovative blend of genetics, sensing, and cryptography.