Nanopores, using tiny holes in charge-insulating membranes, can be used to read DNA and may help revolutionize sequencing. Nanopores were developed from bacterial proteins used to infiltrate cell membranes. They are a fine example of how efforts to understand the world can lead to unforeseen, novel applications. They are also good press for bacteria, which can use it.(image credit: nanopore illustration, neurophilosophy.wordpress.com)
