DNA functionalized, programmable hybrid biomaterials for targeted, multiplexed applications

Abstract

With the advent of DNA nanotechnology, DNA-based biomaterials have emerged as a unique class of materials at the center of various biological advances. Owing to DNA's high modification capacity via programmable Watson–Crick base-pairing, DNA structures of desired design with increased complexity have been designed. However, the lack of inherent functionality, along with low mechanical properties, high synthesis costs, and poor stability, limited the adaptability of DNA-based material toward complex biological systems. To impart functionality, DNA-based hybrid biomaterials synthesized by conjugating DNA with functional materials have been realized. Today, DNA-based hybrid materials have attracted significant attention in biological engineering with broad applicative prospects in biomedicine, clinical diagnosis, and nanodevices. Here, we summarize the recent advances in DNA-based hybrid materials with an in-depth understanding of general molecular design principles, functionalities, and applications. Finally, the challenges and prospects associated with DNA-based hybrid materials are discussed at the end of the review.