DNA‐Grafted Supramolecular Polymers: Helical Ribbon Structures Formed by Self‐Assembly of Pyrene–DNA Chimeric Oligomers

The controlled arraying of DNA strands on adaptive polymeric platforms remains a challenge. Here, the noncovalent synthesis of DNA‐grafted supramolecular polymers from short chimeric oligomers is presented. The oligomers are composed of an oligopyrenotide strand attached to the 5′‐end of an oligodeoxynucleotide. The supramolecular polymerization of these oligomers in an aqueous medium leads to the formation of one‐dimensional (1D) helical ribbon structures. Atomic force and transmission electron microscopy show rod‐like polymers of several hundred nanometers in length. DNA‐grafted polymers of the type described herein will serve as models for the development of structurally and functionally diverse supramolecular platforms with applications in materials science and diagnostics.