Directing self-assembly of DNA nanotubes using programmable seeds.

Mohammed, Abdul M; Schulman, Rebecca · Nano Lett · 2013

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Control over when and where nanostructures arise is essential for the self-assembly of dynamic or multicomponent devices. We design and construct a DNA origami seed for the control of DAE-E tile DNA nanotube assembly. Seeds greatly accelerate nanotube nucleation and growth because they serve as nanotube nucleation templates. Seeds also control nanotube circumference. Simulations predict nanotube growth rates and suggest a small nucleation barrier remains when nanotubes grow from seeds.

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