Ion-Tuned DNA/Ag Fluorescent Nanoclusters As Versatile Logic Device

Abstract

A novel kind of versatile logic device has been constructed utilizing ion-tuned DNA/Ag fluorescent nanoclusters, with K(+) and H(+) as two inputs. A well-chosen hairpin DNA with a poly-C loop serves as the template for synthesizing two species of Ag nanoclusters. Several G-tracts and C-tracts on its two terminals enable the hairpin DNA to convert into the G-quadruplex and/or i-motif structures upon input of K(+) and H(+). Such a structural change remarkably influences the spectral behaviors of Ag nanoclusters. In particular, different species of Ag nanoclusters have distinct fluorescence responses to the input of K(+) and H(+). These unique features of DNA/Ag nanoclusters enable multiple logic operations via multichannel fluorescence output, indicating the versatility as a molecular logic device. By altering the specific sequence of the hairpin DNA, more logic gates can be constructed utilizing Ag nanoclusters.

DNA-templated fluorescent gold nanoclusters reduced by Good’s buffer: from blue-emitting seeds to red and near infrared emitters

“…[18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25] Amongst these stabilizers, DNA is very attractive due to its excellent programmability, stability and cost-effectiveness. [26][27][28][29][30] Taking advantage of the strong binding interaction between cytosine and Ag + , a wide range of emission colors are obtained by using various cytosine-rich DNA sequences, [12][13][14][15][16][17]31,32 where NaBH4 has been the exclusively used reducing agent.…”

Correlation of photobleaching, oxidation and metal induced fluorescence quenching of DNA-templated silver nanoclusters

“…[19][20][21][22][23] On the practical side, by rational incorporation of DNA aptamers, the fluorescence signaling of AgNCs has been successfully coupled with the molecular recognition property of DNA to design biosensors and smart imaging probes. [24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36] An interesting and useful discovery is that the fluorescence of many NCs is strongly quenched by Hg 2+ , allowing its detection at low nM and even sub-nM concentrations. 20,[37][38][39][40][41][42] Despite its importance in analytical chemistry, our fundamental understanding of NCs is still quite limited.…”

DNA biomolecular-electronic encoder and decoder devices constructed by multiplex biosensors

“…[12][13][14][15] In the decade since Adleman's invention, reports have been made of a wide and diverse range of DNA logic devices. [16][17][18][19][20][21][22] Winfree, Stojanovic, Willner, Katz and their co-workers have, for example, developed optically reported 'AND' , 'OR' and 'SET-RESET' logic gate operations. 7,[23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31] Although the above examples serve as promising proofs of principle (see also refs [27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35], it remains necessary to create complex, multicomponent devices on a single biomolecular platform to achieve increased computational complexity and develop realistic DNAbased information processing systems.…”