Rational design of dynamic DNA self-assembly through a responsive-bond-embedded loop

Abstract

Herein, we propose a versatile strategy for dynamic DNA self-assembly through a control loop embedded with responsive chemical groups. Responsive to a stimulus, the inserted chemical bond will be formed or cleaved, determining the states of the control loop. When the loop is intact, DNA self-assembly occurs, otherwise the assembly process is prevented. The “Turn-On”, “Turn-Off”, and reversible “On-Off-On” systems have been achieved for two DNA assembly systems by incorporating different chemical groups, responding to various stimuli such as light irradiation, metal ion, and small molecules. The loop-controlled dynamic DNA self-assembly strategy holds excellent designability and versatility, enriching existing regulation reservoir and bringing new opportunities for dynamic DNA nanotechnology.