Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 10, 2026

Folding and Characterization of a Bio-responsive Robot from DNA Origami
Published on: December 3, 2015
DNA Origami and Its Applications in Synthetic Biology
Yaning Fang1, Xuexin Chen1, Qingsheng Qi1
1State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, P. R. China.
Abstract:
In recent years, DNA origami technology has advanced rapidly as a groundbreaking method for nanomanufacturing. This technology takes advantage of the unique base-pairing characteristics of DNA, and has significant advantages in constructing spatially ordered and programmable nanostructures. This capability aligns with synthetic biology's core principle of mimicking, extending, and reconstructing natural biological processes by modularly assembling artificial systems. This article provides a comprehensive overview of DNA origami's innovative applications across various domains, including cell membrane surfaces, intercellular communication, intelligent biosensing, and precise gene editing, progressing from the extracellular to the intracellular environment. Finally, this review highlights the synergistic interaction between this technology and cell-free synthetic biology, achieved through the integration of in vitro assembly and cellular regulation, thereby opening new pathways for the rational design of artificial life systems.

