Abstract
We demonstrate that unstained DNA nanostructures can be chemically mapped by using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Key to this measurement is the use of graphene supports whose reduced background scattering compared to thicker carbon supports allows EDS to image phosphorus and other elements in the DNA (or in attachments to the DNA) as well as to see the divalent cations used to stabilize the nanostructure. In addition, unlike in other EDS analyses, the chemical maps we obtain can be made quantitative in an absolute sense because each individual DNA nanostructure is in effect a very large macromolecule (∼4.7 MDa) with a known chemical composition. In this way, not only can STEM/EDS serve DNA nanotechnology as a characterization tool but also the DNA structures can function as molecular standards for improving mesoscale EDS techniques.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
