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Updated: May 17, 2026

Plasmid-derived DNA Strand Displacement Gates for Implementing Chemical Reaction Networks
Published on: November 25, 2015
Oligonucleotide-templated chemical reactions: pushing the boundaries of a nature-inspired process
Claudia Percivalle1, Jean-François Bartolo, Sylvain Ladame
1Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
Abstract:
Widespread in nature, oligonucleotide-templated reactions of phosphodiester bond formation have inspired chemists who are now applying this elegant strategy to the catalysis of a broad range of otherwise inefficient reactions. This review highlights the increasing diversity of chemical reactions that can be efficiently catalysed by an oligonucleotide template, using Watson-Crick base-pairing to bring both reagents in close enough proximity to react, thus increasing significantly their effective molarity. The applications of this elegant concept for nucleic acid sensing and controlled organic synthesis will also be discussed.
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