It’s impressive stuff, DNA – after all, it manages to build one of the most complex machine systems there is (us) from nothing but a set of instructions and some basic raw materials. But there is interest in using DNA to build electronic and mechanical nano-devices as well, by exploiting the plug-and-play functions of the proteins to assemble non-biological structures, like transistors or miniature geartrains. It’s early days yet, but the field is growing, so we can expect more developments to come down the pipeline soon.