PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 26, 2004--A research project funded by Arrowhead Research Corporation (OTCBB:ARWR) has resulted in a breakthrough in carbon nanotube technology. The California Institute of Technology ("Caltech") has filed for patent protection on the invention, and Arrowhead has the right to obtain an exclusive license from Caltech. Arrowhead and its subsidiaries have already acquired a large and diverse portfolio of nanotech intellectual property, which consists of approximately 100 U.S. and foreign patents and patent applications.

In an article published in Nano Letters, a team of researchers at Caltech led by Dr. C. Patrick Collier report a new method for coating single-walled carbon nanotubes ("SWNTs") attached to atomic force microscope ("AFM") tips with conformal fluorocarbon polymers formed in an inductively coupled plasma reactor.

Atomic force microscopes are used to analyze materials at the molecular and atomic levels. When attached to AFM tips, carbon nanotubes can be used for ultrahigh-resolution imaging and manipulation at the nanoscale. The invention presents several advantages in using SWNTs for AFM imaging. The polymer coating provides a chemically inert and electrically insulating outer layer and mechanically stabilizes the attached nanotube, which enables imaging in liquids without the need for an intervening adhesive. Further, the coating can be etched away to expose the tip end of the nanotube, resulting in a highly conductive nanoelectrode. The nanoelectrode can be used for more precise sensing or triggering of local bioelectrochemical reactions in liquids.

Commenting on the importance of the invention, R. Bruce Stewart, President of Arrowhead, stated: "In addition to serving as a valuable research tool for our sponsored research group here at Caltech, the invention might be used to develop novel molecular devices."

About Arrowhead Research Corporation

Arrowhead Research Corporation is a diversified nanotechnology company bringing together an innovative mix of technologies, a broad suite of intellectual property, and some of the most respected minds in this dynamic field. The Arrowhead business model is based on three strategic components. Arrowhead provides capital to entities engaged in development and commercialization of nanoscale materials, devices, and systems. In return for early-stage funding, Arrowhead acquires a majority interest in these entities. Arrowhead also sponsors nanoscience research and development by directly funding research at universities. In return for funding, Arrowhead obtains exclusive rights to license and commercialize technologies generated through the research. Finally, Arrowhead seeks to leverage valuable intellectual property in nanotechnology through licensing and sub-licensing arrangements