The pulling force of a tiny synthetic molecular machine

Abstract

In order to function, living organisms use an amazing number of molecular machines. These machines are essential in controlling and performing numerous biological functions, like muscle contraction or intracellular transport. They are able to rectify random thermal motion to generate force and carry out macroscopic tasks. This ability has inspired attempts to create synthetic machines exhibiting control over motion to perform work. © 2013 European Physical Society, EDP Sciences.