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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 26, 2025

Simple, Affordable, and Modular Patterning of Cells using DNA

Simple, Affordable, and Modular Patterning of Cells using DNA

Published on: February 24, 2021

A DNA molecular printer capable of programmable positioning and patterning in two dimensions.

Erik Benson^1,2, Rafael Carrascosa Marzo^1,2, Jonathan Bath^1,2

¹Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Clarendon Laboratory, Oxford, UK.

Science Robotics

|April 20, 2022

Summary

Researchers developed a DNA origami robotic printer for nanoscale patterning. This novel bottom-up approach uses DNA actuators to precisely position a write head, enabling selective surface modification.

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Area of Science:

Biotechnology
Nanotechnology
Molecular Engineering

Background:

Conventional nanoscale manipulation relies on expensive top-down methods like lithography.
DNA nanotechnology offers a bottom-up alternative, enabling self-assembly of functional components.
Previous work demonstrated DNA-based linear and rotary motion components.

Purpose of the Study:

To engineer a nanoscale robotic printer using DNA nanotechnology.
To demonstrate precise positioning and surface modification capabilities at the nanoscale.

Main Methods:

Combining three independently controlled DNA origami linear actuators.
Developing a two-axis positioning mechanism with a gantry, rails, and mobile sleeve.
Utilizing signaling oligonucleotides for precise control of a write head.
Employing DNA strand-exchange reactions for selective surface modification.

Main Results:

Successful construction of a functional nanoscale robotic printer.
Demonstration of reversible positioning of a write head over a canvas.
Proof-of-concept for 'writing' by catalyzing local DNA strand-exchange reactions.
Selective modification of pixels on a DNA canvas.

Conclusions:

DNA nanotechnology provides a powerful platform for creating nanoscale robotic systems.
The developed printer offers a cost-effective and sensitive alternative for nanoscale manufacturing.
Potential applications include surface manufacturing, biophysical studies, and templated chemistry.