Ultrafast DNA Reader Prototype (IMAGE) Arizona State University Caption A tiny, DNA reading device was developed that is a thousands of times smaller than width of a single human hair. The device is sensitive enough to distinguish the individual chemical bases of DNA (known by their abbreviated letters of A, C, T or G) when they are pumped past the reading head. Credit Michael Northrop, Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.