Recent Advances in Constructing Higher‐Order DNA Structures

Abstract

Molecular self-assembly is widely used in the fields of biosensors, molecular devices, efficient catalytic materials, and medical biomaterials. As the carrier of genetic information, DNA is a kind of biomacromolecule composed of deoxyribonucleotide units. DNA nanotechnology extends DNA of its original properties as a molecule that stores and transmits genetic information from its biological environment by taking advantage of its unique base pairing and inherent biocompatibility to produce structurally-defined supramolecular structures. With the continuously development of DNA technology, the assembly method of DNA nanostructures is not only limited on the basis of DNA hybridization but also other biochemical interactions. In this review, we summarize the latest methods used to construct higher-order DNA structures. The problems of DNA nanostructures are discussed and the future directions in this field are provided.

DNA as highly biocompatible carriers for drug delivery

“…In addition, with the advancement of DNA nanotechnology, more and more DNAbased nanomaterials with sophisticated nanostructures have been developed, such as DNA origami, DNA polyhedrons, DNA nanotubes, DNA cages and DNA nanoflowers. [1][2][3][4] These not only allow the highly efficient loading of drugs via different ways, but also make responsive drug release possible through DNA structural changes. Aptamers, which are selected from random DNA/RNA libraries by an in vitro selection process called selective evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX), can specifically recognize targets, promote the accumulation of drugs in target sites, and induce the intracellular delivery of drugs through receptor-mediated endocytosis.…”

Ultrasensitive Aptasensor for Microcystin-LR Detection in Food Samples Based on Target-Activated Assembly of Y-Shaped Hairpin Probes

“…As an alternative signal amplification strategy to improve the detection sensitivity, pure DNA assembly that does not require nanomaterials, and protein enzymes offered new opportunities for the development of cost-effective and highly selective and stable biosensors. − Using DNA as the building blocks for biosensing architectures offers several prominent characteristics, including simple and ease of synthesis, low cost, ease of labeling, and high stability even in harsh conditions. − Recent advances in DNA assembly have generated some Y-shaped DNA biosensors. For example, Han’s group reported a Y-shaped DNA assembly for the detection of rabies virus oligonucleotide by the integration of glucose oxidase and horseradish peroxidase to give the fluorescent and colorimetric signals .…”