In a recent study published in *ACS Nano*, scientists from the Brookhaven National Laboratory, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, have developed a groundbreaking DNA-based "connector" that can link gold nanorods together, forming a unique rope-like ladder structure. This innovative method uses synthetic DNA strands to assemble nanoparticles in a controlled and precise manner, opening up new possibilities for creating advanced nanofibers with tailored properties.
DNA is well-known for its role in carrying genetic information, but it also has powerful potential as a molecular tool for guiding the self-assembly of nanomaterials. When synthetic DNA strands are designed with complementary base pairs, they act like molecular ropes, pulling nanoparticles together. If the bases don't match, the interaction is suppressed, allowing researchers to finely tune the assembly process—a critical aspect of nanoengineering.
In this latest research, the team used single-stranded DNA to connect gold nanorods, exploring various combinations and observing how these structures form over time. They employed advanced techniques such as UV spectroscopy, X-ray scattering, and electron microscopy to analyze the assembly process in detail. Their findings revealed a step-by-step, multi-level assembly mechanism—similar to how proteins are formed in biological systems, where small units first link together before folding into complex structures.
The researchers discovered that the nanorods initially arrange themselves into rope ladders, which then stack together to form larger 3D structures through DNA bridges. However, they also found that the assembly could be halted at intermediate stages by using DNA "blocks," which prevent further stacking and instead guide the formation of linear ribbons. This level of control allows for greater flexibility in designing nanostructures with specific functions.
Brooke Haiwen, one of the lead authors of the study, emphasized that this approach represents a novel self-assembly mechanism, distinct from traditional methods. By interrupting the assembly at the "rope ladder" stage, the team can create linear nanofibers with customizable properties. Potential applications include controlling gene expression in cells, enhancing fluorescence, or even developing nano-scale light guides that can be turned on and off as needed. This breakthrough paves the way for more sophisticated and functional nanomaterials in the future.
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