Nanoknife

A nanoknife is a carbon nanotube-based prototype compression cutting tool intended for sectioning of biological cells.

[1] Working principle is similar to that of a 'cheese slicer'[citation needed], a nanometer-thin individual carbon nanotube strung between two tungsten needles would allow sectioning of very thin slices of biological matter for imaging under an electron microscope.

[2][3] A successful development of this new tool will allow scientists and biologists to make 3D images of cells and tissues for electron tomography, which typically requires samples less than ~300 nanometers in thickness.

Nanoknife Procedure Doctors use a special medical device designed for the specific purpose of performing irreversible electroporation.

In nanoknife treatment, strong electric fields cause cells to die without exposing the tissue to radiation or heating it.

Scanning electron micrograph of a nanoknife. An individual carbon nanotube is being stretched between two tungsten needles. The triangular tip is an atomic force cantilever, measuring the knife's breaking point.( NIST )