Programming 2D Supramolecular Assemblies with Wireframe DNA Origami.

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Materials Science
• Synthetic Biology and DNA Nanotechnology

Background:

• Wireframe DNA origami enables programming of nanoscale geometries, with six-helix bundle (6HB) designs offering versatility and shape fidelity.
• Individual DNA origami object size is limited by scaffold DNA length, restricting the scale of programmable nanostructures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a hierarchical self-assembly strategy for overcoming size limitations in DNA origami.
• To enable the programming of supramolecular assemblies and periodic 2D arrays using wireframe DNA origami as building blocks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized parallel half-crossovers and lateral cohesive interactions for symmetry in supramolecular assemblies.
• Employed a top-down sequence design strategy (METIS) for 2D wireframe DNA origami.
• Fabricated dimers, hexameric superstructures, and periodic 2D arrays using triangular and hexagonal origami building blocks.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated hierarchical self-assembly of larger structures and periodic arrays from wireframe DNA origami units.
• Visualizations via atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed structural integrity of superstructures.
• Achieved close-packed and non-close-packed periodic 2D arrays with high fidelity to designed shapes.

Conclusions:

• The hierarchical design approach provides a general platform for fabricating larger and complex 2D nanoscale materials.
• This strategy overcomes inherent size limitations of individual DNA origami objects.
• The developed method is applicable to various wireframe origami designs and opens avenues for diverse applications in materials science.