Supramolecular DNA Nanotechnology

Abstract

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) has evolved in nature to store and transfer the genetic information of most life on earth. The fidelity of information processing relies on the precise pairing through noncovalent interactions of a molecular code consisting of four unique nucleobases. By using this programmability DNA can be taken out of its biological context and used as building material for the programmable assembly of nanostructures. The routine automated synthesis of DNA has allowed researchers to explore many different DNA architecture designs and applications leading to the creation of the diverse field now termed DNA nanotechnology. DNA nanotechnology has generated many examples of scaffolds, cages, and networks able to precisely position molecules for applications in therapeutics, diagnostics, light-harvesting devices, nanopatterning, and even molecular computing. This article begins by discussing the origins and evolution of the field of DNA nanotechnology and focuses on introducing the three major divisions of this field: DNA tile, origami, and supramolecular DNA assembly. Each of these respective divisions will be thoroughly discussed using specific case study examples demonstrating how DNA nanotechnology has developed and advanced in technological complexity and functionality. Following this discussion, we will examine DNA nanotechnology applications in various multidisciplinary scientific fields. Particular focus will be given to DNA nanotechnology interfaced with biological systems such as templating lipid bilayers for hierarchical self-assembly schemes and development of robust therapeutic delivery methods.