Scientists in the United Kingdom have found a way to get molecules to move quickly in a desired direction without help from outside forces, raising the possibility of coaxing cells to move and grow in specific directions to treat diseases.

The scientists used a special surface with hydrophobic (water repelling) and hydrophilic (water-attracting) sections. The region between the two sections produced an “energy gradient” that can move nanoscale objects much like a conveyor belt.