Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026
10:23
Self-assembly of Complex Two-dimensional Shapes from Single-stranded DNA Tiles
Published on: May 8, 2015
Self-assembly of three-dimensional prestressed tensegrity structures from DNA
Tim Liedl1, Björn Högberg, Jessica Tytell
1Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Nature Nanotechnology
|June 22, 2010
Summary
Researchers created nanoscale tensegrity structures using DNA. These self-assembling structures withstand significant forces, offering potential applications in nanotechnology and biological studies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Structural Engineering
Background:
- Tensegrity structures are known for high strength-to-weight ratios and resilience.
- Applications span engineering, robotics, and architecture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report nanoscale, 3D tensegrity structures using DNA.
- To demonstrate self-assembly against significant forces.
Main Methods:
- Utilized DNA double helices as rigid compressive components.
- Employed single-stranded DNA as tension-bearing cables.
- Investigated self-assembly against forces up to 14 pN.
Main Results:
- Achieved nanoscale, prestressed, 3D tensegrity structures with DNA.
- Demonstrated self-assembly against forces twice the stall force of molecular motors.
- Showcased actuation through enzymatic cleavage.
Conclusions:
- DNA-based tensegrity structures offer a novel approach to nanoscale engineering.
- Potential applications include nanostructures, molecular force studies, and cellular mechanotransduction research.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Assembly of Cytoskeletal Filaments
Cytoskeletal filaments are polymeric forms of smaller protein subunits. However, individual cytoskeletal filaments may easily disassemble or associate with other similar filaments to form rigid structures. Microfilaments, made of actin monomers, rely on actin-binding proteins to form bundles and create networks of individual actin filaments. Microtubules rely on microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) to form sturdy cylindrical structures. However, the proteins involved in forming complex...
01:07The DNA Helix
Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is the genetic material responsible for passing traits from generation to generation in all organisms and most viruses. DNA is composed of two strands of nucleotides that wind around each other to form a spring-like structure called a double helix. However, the double helix is not perfectly symmetrical. Instead, there are regularly occurring grooves in the structure. The major groove occurs where the sugar-phosphate backbones are relatively far apart. This space...
01:16The DNA Helix
Overview
02:05DNA as a Genetic Template
Two structural features of the DNA molecule provide a basis for the mechanisms of heredity: the four nucleotide bases and its double-stranded nature. The Watson-Crick model of double-helical DNA structure, proposed in 1952, drew heavily upon the X-ray crystallography work of researchers Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins. Watson, Crick, and Wilkins jointly received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work in 1962. Franklin was, controversially, excluded from the prize for...
02:05DNA as a Genetic Template
Two structural features of the DNA molecule provide a basis for the mechanisms of heredity: the four nucleotide bases and its double-stranded nature. The Watson-Crick model of double-helical DNA structure, proposed in 1952, drew heavily upon the X-ray crystallography work of researchers Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins. Watson, Crick, and Wilkins jointly received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their work in 1962. Franklin was, controversially, excluded from the prize for...
01:14Generation of Straight or Branched Actin Filaments
The straight or branched structure formation of actin filaments is controlled by nucleating proteins such as the formins and Arp2/3 complex. Formin-mediated assembly results in straight filaments, whereas Arp2/3 protein complex-mediated assembly results in branched actin filaments.
Arp2/3 Complex
Arp2/3 complex is a seven-subunit complex consisting of two proteins similar to actin- Arp2 and Arp3, and five other subunits that help keep Arp2 and Arp3 inactive. When required, the complex is...
Arp2/3 Complex
Arp2/3 complex is a seven-subunit complex consisting of two proteins similar to actin- Arp2 and Arp3, and five other subunits that help keep Arp2 and Arp3 inactive. When required, the complex is...