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Possible biomedical use for squid skin protein

A protein found in the skin of the common pencil squid can conduct positive electrical charges (protons) and could be used in the construction of biologically inspired devices.

Researchers at the University of California produced the protein “reflectin” in common bacteria, and tested it using electrodes to measure current and voltage. They found it conducted protons as easily as the best artificial materials.

The researchers hope to use the protein to create transistors used for communicating with neural cells.

Read more at University of California

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