Molecular motion would cause the images to blur, thus limiting the resolution obtained. With exposure times now reduced by a million-fold, it should be possible to watch enzymes change shape as they catalyze reactions and to troubleshoot nanomachines by observing them in action. For more recent results, see article in Update 28 . Similar methods might be used to make even smaller machines, but true nanomachines are probably beyond the range of these techniques. Public attitudes Victim of numerous court-ordered delays inspired by unfounded fears, the U.S. biotechnology industry has finally realized that it can no longer take public awareness for granted.
Technophobia is an easy nut to crack when moderate resources are devoted to the effort.
Foresight Update 5 - Table of Contents Protein engineering Wm. DeGrado 's group at the duPont Co. has continued to make remarkable progress in protein design and production. The molecules responsible for photon-capture in photosynthesis were mapped in detail several years ago. To find out how they work, scientists at MIT and Washington Univ. This suggests that photosynthesis does not depend critically on the molecular structures arrived at through traditional evolution, and that better and simpler molecules may be developed for powering some kinds of nanomachinery.