A tightly regulated molecular motor based upon T7 RNA polymerase

Controlled movement of materials or molecules within the nanometer range is essential in many applications of nanotechnology. Here we report the capture, movement, and release of cargo molecules along DNA by a modified form of T7 RNA polymerase (RNAP) in a manner that is controlled by the sequence of the DNA. Using single-molecule methods, we visualize the assembly and manipulation of nanodevices and the ability to harness rotary and linear forces of the RNAP motor.