Functionalization of quantum rods with oligonucleotides for programmable assembly with DNA origami

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• DNA origami enables precise nanoscale construction.
• Quantum rods (QRs) offer unique optical properties for advanced applications.
• Controlled assembly of nanomaterials onto DNA scaffolds is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the DNA-mediated self-assembly of cadmium selenide/cadmium sulfide (CdSe/CdS) quantum rods (QRs) onto DNA origami.
• To develop a novel method for functionalizing QRs with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) for enhanced coverage and controlled assembly.
• To investigate the programmable assembly of QRs with distinct optical properties onto DNA origami.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of two QR types with unique optical emission and high polarization.
• Functionalization of QRs with ssDNA using a protection-deprotection strategy.
• Programmable assembly of QRs onto DNA origami at defined zones with parallel capture strands.

Main Results:

• Achieved high DNA coverage on QRs by controlling ssDNA rigidity and denaturation temperature.
• Demonstrated programmable, site-specific assembly of QRs with different optical properties.
• Successfully purified QR-origami conjugates using gel electrophoresis and ultracentrifugation.
• Analyzed assembly yields, QR stoichiometry, orientation, and energy transfer based on structural parameters.

Conclusions:

• The novel ssDNA functionalization and programmable assembly method allows precise control over QR placement on DNA origami.
• This technique facilitates the study of orientation-dependent phenomena like Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between QRs.
• The developed QR-origami conjugates are suitable for further investigation in nanophotonics and advanced materials science.