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 group will enable the formation or cleavage of the control loop, determining its intact or cleaved states. 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 ions, and small molecules. The loop-controlled dynamic DNA self-assembly strategy holds excellent designability and versatility, enriching the existing regulation reservoir and bringing new opportunities for dynamic DNA nanotechnology.