The researchers in this study examined the geometric structure and behaviour of one of the rotavirus's surface proteins, called VP4, which plays a key role in binding on to the surface of a target cell, and breaking through its membrane.

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Any particle with a target molecule on its surface will stick to the spin valve.

ECONOMIST: Labs on a chip

Meanwhile, a U.S. official said reports that Israel had struck a Syrian research facility were wrong, instead saying warplanes hit only one target: a convoy carrying surface-to-air missiles.

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When the antibodies on the surface of the nanotubes come in contact with a target protein, the proteins bind to the tubes and spread them apart a tiny bit.

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If these can be identified, they hope that the number of these on the surface of tumour cells can be boosted, so they present an obvious target for "killer" cells in the body's immune system.

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The Novartis drug suppresses a protein called MTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), which receives incoming growth signals from the surface of the cell and directs them to grow fatter, a necessary step before cell division.

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But beneath the surface, there is the CIA officer's constant and often uncharitable assessment of the target's aspirations, fears and desires.

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