Programmable 3D Hexagonal Geometry of DNA Tensegrity Triangles |
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Authors: | Brandon Lu Karol Woloszyn Yoel P. Ohayon Bena Yang Cuizheng Zhang Chengde Mao Nadrian C. Seeman Simon Vecchioni Ruojie Sha |
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Affiliation: | 1. Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY 10003 USA;2. Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA;3. Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY 10003 USA Deceased (November 16, 2021) |
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Abstract: | Non-canonical interactions in DNA remain under-explored in DNA nanotechnology. Recently, many structures with non-canonical motifs have been discovered, notably a hexagonal arrangement of typically rhombohedral DNA tensegrity triangles that forms through non-canonical sticky end interactions. Here, we find a series of mechanisms to program a hexagonal arrangement using: the sticky end sequence; triangle edge torsional stress; and crystallization condition. We showcase cross-talking between Watson–Crick and non-canonical sticky ends in which the ratio between the two dictates segregation by crystal forms or combination into composite crystals. Finally, we develop a method for reconfiguring the long-range geometry of formed crystals from rhombohedral to hexagonal and vice versa. These data demonstrate fine control over non-canonical motifs and their topological self-assembly. This will vastly increase the programmability, functionality, and versatility of rationally designed DNA constructs. |
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Keywords: | Crystal Engineering DNA Crystals DNA Nanotechnology Self-Assembly Tensegrity Triangles |
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