DNA-mediated assembly of iron platinum (FePt) nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanocomposite materials consisting of FePt nanoparticles and DNA were constructed via DNA-mediated “bricks and mortar” self-assembly. Electrostatic interaction between the cationic nanoparticles and the DNA through surface recognition led to the formation of extended composite aggregates. These DNA-assembled aggregates feature increased interparticle spacing arising from the DNA “mortar”. The enhanced structure and increased spacing in the bio-nanocomposite assembly was found to alter the magnetic properties of the assemblies, as demonstrated by a 54 K change in blocking temperature (T_B).