Open Access Article
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Dynamic DNA Superstructures with Emergent Functions
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Daniel Duke , Sierra Sterling , Teng Teng , Anna Altunina , Irina V. Martynenko , Yonggang Ke , Carlos Ernesto Castro and Gaurav Arya
First published on 30th July 2025
Abstract
DNA nanotechnology enables the precise construction of intricate nanoscale structures. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in incorporating dynamic functionalities into these nanostructures. Concurrently, innovative strategies have emerged for their self-assembly and surface patterning into larger, more complex architectures. This review explores the convergence of these two key capabilities-reconfigurability and hierarchical assembly-to engineer DNA origami superstructures with intrinsic dynamic behavior. We begin by outlining foundational strategies in dynamic design, hierarchical assembly, and surface placement, then review recent progress in leveraging these strategies to construct dynamic superstructures with emergent behaviors. The article concludes with a roadmap of major challenges and opportunities shaping the future of this rapidly evolving field.