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Single molecule analysis of structural fluctuations in DNA nanostructures
Mette D E Jepsen1, Rasmus Schøler Sørensen, Christopher Maffeo
1Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark. vicb@inano.au.dk.
Nanoscale
|October 3, 2019
Summary
DNA origami nanostructures can be improved by understanding their local structure. This study reveals how ion concentration and design changes affect DNA box lid dynamics, aiding precise nanoscale organization.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Structural Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- DNA origami enables complex nanoscale assembly.
- Functionalization allows precise matter organization.
- Molecular-scale dynamics can hinder nanostructure compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate local structure of DNA origami boxes.
- Understand factors affecting DNA box lid dynamics.
- Improve the design and control of DNA nanostructures.
Main Methods:
- Single molecule Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET) microscopy.
- Coarse-grained Brownian dynamics simulations.
- Analysis of DNA origami box lid structure and fluctuations.
Main Results:
- FRET signals from closed DNA origami boxes are sensitive to buffer ion concentrations.
- Minor DNA structure design alterations impact local structure.
- Simulations revealed fluctuations in the distance between the DNA box wall and lid.
Conclusions:
- Methods developed visualize and enhance local structure in 3D DNA origami.
- Findings guide precise placement of chemical groups and ligands on nanostructures.
- Understanding local dynamics is crucial for functional DNA origami design.
