Construction of a 4 zeptoliters switchable 3D DNA box origami

ACS Nano. 2012 Nov 27;6(11):10050-3. doi: 10.1021/nn303767b. Epub 2012 Oct 8.

Abstract

The DNA origami technique is a recently developed self-assembly method that allows construction of 3D objects at the nanoscale for various applications. In the current study we report the production of a 18 × 18 × 24 nm(3) hollow DNA box origami structure with a switchable lid. The structure was efficiently produced and characterized by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Förster resonance energy transfer spectroscopy. The DNA box has a unique reclosing mechanism, which enables it to repeatedly open and close in response to a unique set of DNA keys. This DNA device can potentially be used for a broad range of applications such as controlling the function of single molecules, controlled drug delivery, and molecular computing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Crystallization / methods*
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA / ultrastructure*
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Materials Testing
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Nanostructures / ultrastructure*
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Particle Size
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances
  • DNA