‘Nanobot’ viruses tag and round up bacteria in food and water

Tweaking DNA and adding magnetic nanoparticles creates a new tool to test for contaminants

virus illustration

BACTERIA-HUNTING VIRUSES  Viruses (one illustrated, center) can be engineered to carry magnetic nanoparticles and modified DNA, transforming them into nanobots that detect bacteria in water or food.

S. Nugen

NEW ORLEANS — Viruses engineered into “nanobots” can find and separate bacteria from food or water.