2D DNA lattices constructed from two-tile DAE-O systems possessing circular central strands

Area of Science:

• DNA nanotechnology
• Materials science
• Supramolecular chemistry

Background:

• DNA lattices offer precise nanoscale construction.
• DAE-O tiles provide a framework for DNA self-assembly.
• Oligonucleotide length and form impact lattice structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of central strand length and form on 2D DNA lattice formation using DAE-O tiles.
• To understand how lateral rigidity influences DNA lattice morphology.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a classical two-tile system (DAE-O).
• Employed pre-circularised oligonucleotides (42-, 64-, and 84-nucleotides) as central looped strands.
• Analyzed lattice formation using both circular and linear central strands.

Main Results:

• DAE tiles with 42- and 64-nt central strands (circular or linear) successfully formed regular single crystalline lattices.
• DAE tiles with a circular 84-nt central strand formed single crystalline lattices.
• DAE tiles with a linear 84-nt central strand resulted in polycrystalline 2D lattices.

Conclusions:

• The length and circularity of central oligonucleotides in DAE tiles critically affect DNA lattice morphology.
• Subtle differences in lateral rigidity, influenced by strand form, are proposed as the cause for morphological variations in DNA lattices.