Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of molecular science. By refining traditional nuclear quadrupolar resonance (NQR) spectroscopy using quantum sensors embedded in diamonds, they have successfully detected signals from individual nuclei, something previously thought impossible. This advancement eliminates the limitations of traditional NQR spectroscopy, which relies on macroscopic ensembles of nuclei and averages signals across trillions of atoms, overlooking important molecular variations.
The quantum sensors, based on defects in diamonds known as nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, can detect individual nuclear spins, leading to unprecedented sensitivity and precision. By isolating individual nuclei, researchers can reveal tiny differences in molecular structure and dynamics that were previously hidden. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize fields such as protein research, drug development, and materials science.
The research team’s collaboration with Delft University of Technology resulted in the development of a tool capable of capturing single-atomic signals with extraordinary precision. By leveraging the interactions between electronic spins in NV centers and nearby nuclear spins, the researchers were able to map the nuclear quadrupolar Hamiltonian and uncover significant variations in quadrupolar and hyperfine parameters.
The implications of this research extend beyond molecular characterization, with potential applications in drug development, protein analysis, materials science, and even quantum computing. By providing insights into dynamic processes like protein folding and drug-target interactions, quantum-enhanced NQR spectroscopy opens up new possibilities for personalized medicine and the design of advanced materials. This innovation exemplifies how quantum technologies can push the boundaries of scientific inquiry and pave the way for a deeper understanding of the natural world.
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