Spatial regulation of synthetic and biological nanoparticles by DNA nanotechnology

Nanoparticles are among the most fascinating materials because of their unique size-dependent properties. The spatial positioning of the nanoparticles with a nanoscale precision will greatly enhance their potential for use in the fabrication of functional materials and devices. Recently, the development of DNA nanotechnology has enabled the construction of two- and three-dimensional, precisely addressable nanostructures and devices based on DNA sequence design and programmable assembly. Advances in conjugating DNA with nanoparticles can bridge these two technologies and provide scientists with a new tool to study material transportation and energy transfer at a nanometer scale. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in this emerging research field, which includes not only the static arrangements of inorganic nanoparticles but also the dynamic regulation of organic and biological units at a nanometer scale. With the rapid development in this field, new challenges and new possibilities will emerge and bring about fruitful achievements with a significant impact on future work.