The key to the cell-free reactions in the new bioreactor is a permeable nanoporous membrane and serpentine (snake-like) design, made using a combination of electron-beam lithography and advanced material-deposition processes. The long serpentine channels allow for exchange of materials between parallel reactor and feeder channels. With this approach, the team can control the exchange of metabolites, energy, and species that inhibit production of the desired protein. The design also extends reaction times and improves yields. Lives of soldiers and others injured in remote locations could be saved with a cell-free protein synthesis device; could also produce custom orphan drugs and personalized medicines at low cost

• Uncategorized