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Genetically Encoding Ultrastable Virus-like Particles Encapsulating Functional DNA Nanostructures in Living Bacteria
Shai Zilberzwige-Tal1, Dan Mark Alon1, Danielle Gazit1
1The Shmunis School of Molecular Cell Biology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Science, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel.
ACS Synthetic Biology
|June 2, 2021
Summary
Researchers developed a method to protect functional DNA nanostructures using virus-like particles (VLPs). This innovation shields DNA from degradation in biological environments, enhancing its real-world applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Molecular Engineering
Background:
- DNA nanotechnology offers advanced molecular-scale devices for in vitro applications.
- Current DNA nanostructures degrade rapidly in biological settings, limiting their in vivo use.
- Viruses naturally protect their genetic material in harsh environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a method for protecting functional DNA nanostructures.
- To encapsulate DNA nanostructures within MS2 bacteriophage virus-like particles (VLPs).
- To enable in vitro and in vivo applications of DNA nanostructures.
Main Methods:
- Encapsulation of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) of varying sizes (200-1500 nt), sequences, and structures within VLPs.
- Demonstration of retained DNA nanostructure functionality after encapsulation.
- Exposure of ssDNA-VLP nanocomposites (NCs) to hostile biological conditions, including human blood serum.
Main Results:
- Successful encapsulation of functional ssDNA nanostructures within MS2 VLPs.
- Demonstrated protection of encapsulated DNA against degradation in human blood serum.
- Engineered NCs exhibit enhanced stability and functionality compared to current methods.
Conclusions:
- Virus-like particles serve as effective protective shells for DNA nanostructures.
- Engineered ssDNA-VLP NCs overcome degradation issues, enabling new applications.
- This technology provides critical properties unattainable by existing fabrication methods.
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