A breakthrough in nanotechnology could hasten the development of molecular machines that can act as artificial muscles or drug delivery systems in the body.

Chemists at Edinburgh University used ultraviolet light to stimulate human-made molecules to propel small droplets of liquid across flat and sloped surfaces.

The achievement, according to the researchers, is equivalent to a conventional machine lifting an object to more than twice the height of the world’s tallest building.

Researchers predict the technology could lead to more powerful computers, very light but strong materials, advanced medical techniques and longer lasting, more effective medicines.