Self-assembly of crosslinked DNA-gold nanoparticle layers visualized by in-situ scanning force microscopy

Two-dimensional streptavidin crystals are used as the substrate for DNA-directed assembly of crosslinked gold-nanoparticle aggregates (see Figure). As shown by in-situ scanning force microscopy, the interparticle distance can be controlled by the length of the DNA linker connecting individual particles. This system may lead to nanostructured materials with programmable functionalities for use in nanobiotechnology.