Sabrina Palmano

Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection

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About

Sabrina Palmano is a leading figure in DNA nanotechnology, with her research focused on the design and engineering of dynamic nanoscale devices for targeted molecular delivery. Her most celebrated contribution is the development of a pioneering DNA origami nanorobot, detailed in her highly cited 2014 work. This cylindrical nanobot, measuring just 14 nm in diameter and 48 nm in length, features a switchable flap that can transition from a disarmed to an armed configuration in response to a specific nucleic acid stimulus. This breakthrough demonstrated the first controlled, physical actuation of a DNA-based structure for potential cargo release, laying critical groundwork for smart drug delivery systems. With 65 citations, this paper has become a foundational reference in the field, inspiring subsequent work on responsive nanomaterials. Palmano’s achievements highlight her exceptional skill in merging structural DNA design with programmable logic, positioning her as a key innovator in the quest to build molecular robots that can operate with precision inside living systems.