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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
10:23
Self-assembly of Complex Two-dimensional Shapes from Single-stranded DNA Tiles
Published on: May 8, 2015
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Self-assembly of DNA nanostructures in different cations
Arlin Rodriguez1, Dhanush Gandavadi2,3,4, Johnsi Mathivanan5
1The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|May 19, 2023
Summary
Researchers explored DNA nanostructure assembly using various ions beyond magnesium. Monovalent ions like sodium and lithium enhanced nuclease resistance, offering new possibilities for stable DNA nanotechnology.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- DNA nanostructures offer programmable custom designs but typically require high magnesium ion concentrations for assembly.
- Limited ion conditions (e.g., Mg2+, Na+) have been explored for DNA nanostructure assembly, restricting broader applications.
Approach:
- Investigated DNA nanostructure assembly across diverse ion conditions (Ca2+, Ba2+, Na+, K+, Li+) using various sizes: double-crossover, three-point-star, DNA tetrahedron, and DNA origami triangle.
- Quantified assembly yields via gel electrophoresis and confirmed DNA origami triangle assembly using atomic force microscopy.
Key Points:
- Successful DNA nanostructure assembly demonstrated in Ca2+, Ba2+, Na+, K+, and Li+ ions.
- Structures assembled in monovalent ions (Na+, K+, Li+) showed up to 10-fold greater nuclease resistance than those in divalent ions (Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+).
Conclusions:
- Presents novel assembly conditions for a broad range of DNA nanostructures.
- Achieved enhanced biostability in DNA nanostructures through alternative ion conditions.
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