Buckyballs bind to DNA

December 12, 2005

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Scientists examining the interactions among nanoscale objects, living beings and the environment are uncovering nanotechnology's dark side.

Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Vanderbilt University have used computer simulations to show that C60 molecules, or buckyballs, will attach to and deform DNA molecules in aqueous environments.

Buckyballs, which are spheres of 60 carbon atoms, have been touted as potential drug delivery vehicles. Given that the human body is an aqueous environment, the simulations show that it might not be such a good idea to flood the body with the molecules.

The study shows that buckyballs could have a negative impact on the structure and biological functions of DNA molecules. The carbon molecules bind to single- and double-stranded DNA, and bind to damaged sections of DNA molecules, which could interfere with DNA's natural self-repair process.

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