A Long and Reversibly Self-Assembling 1D DNA Nanostructure Built from Triplex and Quadruplex Hybrid Tiles

We report a new DNA nanostructure, an extended 1-dimensional composite built for the first time out of structurally robust yet conveniently disassembled DNA triple helices, interspersed with short stretches of G-quadruplexes. These TQ Hybrid 1-dimensional nanostructures require potassium ions and modestly acidic pH for their formation and are easily disassembled by changes to either of these requirements. We initially prepared and characterized a monomeric TQ Hybrid tile; followed by sticky TQs tiles, incorporating unique guanine-only sticky ends, that enable efficient self-assembly via G-quartet formation of nanostructures >150 nm in length, as seen with atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. We anticipate that such DNA TQ Hybrid structures will find unique and varied application as communication modules within larger nanostructures, and as sensors, logic gates, as well as in other aspects of DNA nanotechnology.

Automated summary

A new DNA nanostructure composed of DNA triple helices and G-quadruplexes was reported, requiring potassium ions and acidic pH for formation, and easily disassembled by changing environmental conditions. This structure has potential applications in communication modules, sensors, logic gates, and other aspects of DNA nanotechnology.