Dr Bensimon also expects that molecular combing will come in handy for those mapping the human genome.

ECONOMIST: Let��s get this straight

Whether molecular combing will prove a useful technique for integrating conventional and molecular electronics remains to be seen.

ECONOMIST: Let��s get this straight

In recent experiments carried out by Chiara Conti and other members of Dr Bensimon's team, molecular combing was used to identify a genetic defect responsible for cancer of the kidney, which is notoriously difficult to diagnose in its early (and therefore treatable) stages.

ECONOMIST: Let��s get this straight