A reversible DNA–silver nanoclusters-based molecular fluorescence switch and its use for logic gate operation

Abstract

Molecule-like silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) with few to tens of atoms are highly sensitive to the sequence and structure of DNA stabilizers. In this paper, a novel pH-triggered reversible molecular fluorescence switch is developed by taking advantage of the DNA-dependent fluorescence pH response of AgNCs. The DNA–AgNCs fluorescence switch simultaneously addresses concerns of simple construction strategy, efficient design and organic-solvent-free operation. Moreover, the excellent photostability and biocompatibility of AgNCs provide great potential for application of the DNA–AgNCs fluorescence switch in the development of functional molecular devices. Specifically, we apply the DNA–AgNCs fluorescence switch combined with the DNA sequence-dependent pH response pattern of AgNCs for construction of molecular logic gates.