"Light-activated molecular machines revolutionize cell communication and drug delivery"

Scientists at Rice University have used light-activated molecular machines to trigger intercellular calcium wave signals, offering a new approach to controlling cellular activity. By rotating small-molecule-based actuators with visible light, they induced a calcium-signaling response in smooth muscle cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for heart problems, digestive issues, and other diseases characterized by calcium-signaling dysfunction. The ability to control cell-to-cell communication in muscle tissue at the molecular level has the potential to revolutionize medical interventions.