Abstract
DNA molecule is regarded as the basic material to construct novel nanomaterials due to its good biocompatibility and programmability. Self-assembled DNA structures with controllable size, shape, symmetry, as well as environment-responsive properties were designed and fabricated, which has great potential for application in nanotheranostic fields such as imaging, detection, and drug delivery. However, there are some problems on in vivo application of these DNA-based materials, such as poor stability in living systems, low cell uptake efficiency and drug delivery and controllable release. This review briefly summarized the design methods of self-assembled DNA structures, and their applications in imaging, bioassay, and drug delivery, and provided the strategies to improve the stability and cell penetration ability of these nanostructures. We finally discussed the opportunities and challenges for using self-assembled DNA nanostructures for nanotheranostic applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 call
