The controllable patterning of tannic acid on DNA origami

Tannic acid-based patterning is crucial for its applications in bioengineering, including multifunctional coatings, biosensors, and biochips. However, tannic acid (TA) patterning is challenging owing to the rapid polymerization kinetics of tannins and their strong adhesion towards most surfaces or objects. Herein, we report a strategy for controllable TA nanopatterning based on DNA origami templates. Protruding clustered ssDNA (pcDNA) from DNA origami tiles served as indexes for the selective deposition of TA due to the high flexibility of ssDNA and exposed aromatic bases, which provide active sites for TA-DNA interactions. Next, by exploiting the pH-sensitive degradation of TA polymers, controllable 'erasing' and 'rewriting' of TA nanopatterns were performed. Finally, combining the high adhesion and selective deposition, the TA polymers as a glue modified on the edges of origami tiles directed the reversible association/disassociation of origami multimers. Our strategy provides a simple approach for the controllable nanopatterning of TA, enabling its unique properties to tailor surface patterns for applications in materials science and biomedicine. pH-Responsive TA nanopatterning is performed directed by the protruding clustered ssDNA on a DNA origami template.

Automated summary

This study presents a controllable tannic acid (TA) nanopatterning strategy based on DNA origami templates. The protruding clustered ssDNA on the DNA origami tiles serves as an index for the selective deposition of TA, allowing for controllable erasing and rewriting of TA nanopatterns. Furthermore, the TA polymers modified on the edges of the origami tiles enable reversible association/disassociation of origami multimers.