A dissipative pathway for the structural evolution of DNA fibres

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular chemistry
• Materials science
• Biomimetic systems

Background:

• Biochemical networks evolve and adapt through energy cycles.
• Synthetic self-assembled systems often lack adaptability and recyclability.
• Current methods for improving supramolecular materials have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for creating adaptable supramolecular materials.
• To investigate the role of proton dissipation in supramolecular polymerization.
• To enhance the morphology and properties of DNA and cyanuric acid fibers.

Main Methods:

• Annealing via slow proton dissipation.
• Single-molecule fluorescence microscopy.
• Photoacid-enabled depolymerization and repolymerization.

Main Results:

• Proton dissipation selects for unique fiber morphologies.
• Observed healing of gaps and conversion of networks into nanocables.
• Achieved organized and robust supramolecular fibers.

Conclusions:

• Slow proton dissipation offers a new chemical route for error-checking in supramolecular materials.
• This out-of-equilibrium approach enhances material morphology and properties.
• The method improves recyclability and adaptability of synthetic systems.