Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a groundbreaking method for detecting and profiling single molecules without the need for fluorescent labels. This new label-free approach, detailed in the journal Nature, offers a highly sensitive way to study how molecules interact with each other and could have far-reaching implications in areas such as drug discovery and materials development. Led by chemistry professor Randall Goldsmith, the research team’s achievement represents a significant advancement in the field of observing individual molecules at the atomic level.
The method developed by the UW-Madison team relies on an optical microresonator, or microcavity, which traps light in a tiny space where it can interact with a molecule. This unique device allows for the detection of individual molecules and provides valuable information about their properties, such as shape and movement. Understanding the conformation of molecules is crucial for studying how biomolecules interact with each other, particularly in the context of drug-protein interactions. The microcavity technique offers a fast and efficient way to gather this information, potentially revolutionizing the field of molecular spectroscopy.
Molecules are allowed to enter the microcavity, where they interact with the light passing through it, enabling researchers to learn about their behaviors and characteristics. Goldsmith and his collaborators, including former postdoctoral researcher Lisa-Maria Needham, have filed a patent for the device and methods used in this research. The team plans to further refine the technology in the coming years, exploring its potential applications in spectroscopy and other areas. With funding from the National Institutes of Health and support from the Q-NEXT Quantum Center, this innovative approach to studying single molecules holds promise for advancing scientific understanding and opening new avenues of research.
Goldsmith’s fascination with single molecules dates back to his time as a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University, where he trained under Nobel laureate W.E. Moerner. Moerner’s groundbreaking work in using light to observe single molecules paved the way for subsequent research in this field. By developing new tools that allow for the observation of individual molecules, scientists gain unique insights into complex systems and interactions, leading to a deeper understanding of the fundamental building blocks of matter.
Observing molecules at the atomic level provides a valuable perspective that complements larger-scale studies of materials and biological systems. By understanding how molecules interact with each other, researchers can uncover new insights and potentially make significant advancements in various scientific disciplines. The potential applications of the microcavity technique are vast, from enhancing drug discovery to improving the development of advanced materials. Goldsmith and his team are excited about the possibilities this new tool opens up and are already thinking about how it could be applied in other areas of research and technology.
The development of the label-free method for observing single molecules represents a significant milestone in the field of molecular research. By combining concepts from different scientific disciplines, such as physics, chemistry, and engineering, the UW-Madison team has created a powerful tool that offers unprecedented insights into the behavior and interactions of individual molecules. Moving forward, the refinement of this technology and its application in various scientific fields could lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in our understanding of the natural world.