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Updated: Nov 20, 2025

Self-Assembly of Gamma-Modified Peptide Nucleic Acids into Complex Nanostructures in Organic Solvent Mixtures
Published on: June 26, 2020
Oligomer Length Defines the Self-Assembly of Single-Stranded DNA-Collagen Complex Fibers
Bryan D James1, Sophia Saenz1, Anastacia van Gent1
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, 100 Rhines Hall, Gainesville, Florida 32611 United States.
Abstract:
Collagen and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) complex to self-assemble into fibers depending on the length of the ssDNA and the relative amounts of collagen and ssDNA in solution. We report for the first time that when monodisperse, random sequences of ssDNA in the range of 15-90 nucleotides and type I collagen were mixed together at room temperature, fibers several tens of micrometers in length and as large as 10 μm in diameter were formed. Fiber formation was rapid and spontaneous, requiring no further treatment after mixing. Most notably, more ssDNA oligomers were incorporated into the fibers formed using shorter ssDNA oligomers. Endothelial cells formed angiogenic-like structures using the fibers with elevated expression of von Willebrand factor for cells in direct contact with the fibers. These fibers open the door to future applications in the administration and functionality of ssDNA and collagen.
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