Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 6, 2026

Production of Dynein and Kinesin Motor Ensembles on DNA Origami Nanostructures for Single Molecule Observation
Published on: October 15, 2019
Train of Single Molecule-Gears
We-Hyo Soe1,2, Saurabh Srivastava1, Christian Joachim1,2
1Centre d'Elaboration de Matériaux et d'Études Structurales (CEMES) , Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Toulouse , 29 Rue J. Marvig, BP 4347 , 31055 Toulouse Cedex, France.
Abstract:
Two molecule-gears, 1.2 nm in diameter with six teeth, are mounted each on a single copper adatom separated exactly by 1.9 nm on a lead surface using a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (LT-STM). A functioning train of two molecule-gears is constructed complete with a molecule-handle. Not mounted on a Cu adatom axle, this ancillary molecule-gear is mechanically engaged with the first molecule-gear of the train to stabilize its step-by-step rotation. Centered on its Cu adatom axle, the rotation of the first gear of the train step by step rotates the second similar to a train of macroscopic gears. From the handle to the first and to this second molecule-gear, the exact positioning of the two Cu adatom axles on the lead surface ensures that the molecular teeth-to-teeth mechanics is fully reversible.
Related Concept Videos
The Movement of Organelles and Vesicles
Sequence Networks of Rotating Machines
Zero-sequence current induces a voltage drop across the generator's neutral impedance and other...
Transmission Shafts: Problem Solving
Next, use bending moment diagrams for the shaft to...
ATP Synthase: Mechanism
Actin Treadmilling
Generation of Straight or Branched Actin Filaments
Arp2/3 Complex
Arp2/3 complex is a seven-subunit complex consisting of two proteins similar to actin- Arp2 and Arp3, and five other subunits that help keep Arp2 and Arp3 inactive. When required, the complex is...

