Assembling CdSe/ZnS core–shell quantum dots on localized DNA nanostructures†
Abstract
We have demonstrated the assembly of CdSe/ZnS core–shell quantum dots (Qdots) on DNA templates that could potentially be used in practical devices and sensors. Qdots were aligned on one and two dimensional DNA nanostructures through electrostatic interaction between Qdots and DNA nanostructures. About 2 to 3 times larger adsorption ratios of Qdots on DNA templates were observed on both positively and negatively charged substrates. Moreover, assembled Qdots on DNA templates exhibit significant improvement in electric characteristics with a distinct semiconductor-like plateau. The results obtained in this research show the specific complementary relationship between Qdots and DNA nanostructures: the DNA nanostructures guide precise control of Qdot assembly on desired places and assembled Qdots help to increase the functionality of complexes. These approaches open up opportunities to control accurate positioning of specific nano and biomaterials with full functionality and efficiency in a given system.