The 2003 Nobel Prize in Chemistry honors two researchers for their pioneering work on the structure and mechanisms of cell membrane channels, tiny pores that regulate the flow of ions and water molecules across cells. (p. 246)

A new gene therapy technique relies on nanorods made of gold and nickel to deliver genes to cells in the body. (p. 227)

Researchers have devised a new imaging technique for visualizing every carbon atom in the basic unit of graphite. (p. 197)

Scientists have created a memory device in which data are encoded in switching molecules called catenanes that are attached to a carbon nanotube. (p. 182)

By controlling the amount of water in their glands, spiders and silkworms prevent their silk proteins from crystallizing prematurely. (p. 173)

Microscopic mirrors can swarm a target and produce an optical signal that identifies the target to the observer. (p. 157)

A new class of electrically conducting organic molecules provides researchers with improved materials with which to fabricate plastic electronic devices. (p. 133)

An ultra-sensitive chemical sensor uses microcantilevers to detect airborne plastic explosives within seconds. (p. 116)