Novel DNA nanoflower biosensing technologies towards next-generation molecular diagnostics

DNA nanoflowers (DNFs) are topological flower-like nanostructures based on ultralong-strand DNA and inorganic metal-ion frameworks. Because of their programmability, biocompatibility, and controllable assembly size for specific responses to molecular recognition stimuli, DNFs are powerful biosensing tools for detecting biomolecules. Here, we review the current state of DNF-based bio-sensing strategies for in vivo and in vitro detection, with a view of how the field has evolved towards molecular diagnostics. We also provide a detailed classifica-tion of DNF-based biosensing strategies and propose their future utility. Particularly as transduction elements, DNFs can accelerate biosensing engineering by signal amplification. Finally, we discuss the key challenges and further prospects DNF-based biosensing technologies in developing applications of a broader scope.

Automated summary

DNA nanoflowers (DNFs) are topological flower-like nanostructures made of long-strand DNA and inorganic metal-ion frameworks. They are programmable, biocompatible, and can assemble to specific sizes for detecting biomolecules. This review covers the current state of DNF-based biosensing strategies for in vivo and in vitro detection, discusses their classification, and explores future applications. DNFs can accelerate biosensing engineering by amplifying signals. The key challenges and prospects of DNF-based biosensing technologies are also discussed.