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Updated: Jun 30, 2026
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Plasmid-derived DNA Strand Displacement Gates for Implementing Chemical Reaction Networks
Published on: November 25, 2015
Programmable pH-responsive DNA inter-strand matching (PRISM) for precision molecular band-pass actuation
Xiaole Han1,2, Hongyan Yu2, Xiaomei Lin2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Interdisciplinary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Youyi Road, Chongqing, 400016, China.
Theranostics
|June 29, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a DNA-based system called PRISM that acts as a molecular band-pass filter. This novel pH-sensing technology precisely distinguishes subtle pH differences in biological environments, enabling advanced diagnostics and therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemical Biology
Background:
- Precise sensing of physiological pH is crucial for molecular regulation in biological systems.
- Traditional pH-responsive systems struggle to differentiate subtle pH variations, such as those in tumor microenvironments (pH 6.5-6.8).
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel pH-sensing strategy for precise molecular regulation.
- To create a system capable of distinguishing narrow physiological pH ranges for improved diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Developed PRISM (pH-Responsive DNA Inter-Strand Matching), a DNA-based molecular band-pass filter.
- Integrated low-pH OFF (i-motif) and high-pH OFF (C-A mismatch) modules for non-monotonic actuation.
- Utilized sequence-level thermodynamic design to define a controllable operational window.
Main Results:
- PRISM demonstrated tunable band-pass signal responses, enabling precise pH sensing.
- Successfully applied PRISM for high-contrast imaging of pH gradients on HeLa cell surfaces.
- Showcased PRISM's ability to regulate DNA aptamers and control CRISPR/Cas13a activity based on pH.
Conclusions:
- PRISM offers a modular, biocompatible strategy for precise windowed pH regulation, moving beyond conventional monotonic switching.
- The platform facilitates high-fidelity diagnostic imaging and localized therapeutic activation in subtle pathological microenvironments.
- PRISM enables the development of intelligent theranostic platforms without complex bioconjugation.
