Microchemomechanical devices using DNA hybridization

The programmability of DNA oligonucleotides has led to sophisticated DNA nanotechnology and considerable research on DNA nanomachines powered by DNA hybridization. Here, we investigate an extension of this technology to the micrometer-colloidal scale, in which observations and measurements can be made in real time/space using optical microscopy and holographic optical tweezers. We use semirigid DNA origami structures, hinges with mechanical advantage, self-assembled into a nine-hinge, accordionlike chemomechanical device, with one end anchored to a substrate and a colloidal bead attached to the other end. Pulling the bead converts the mechanical energy into chemical energy stored by unzipping the DNA that bridges the hinge. Releasing the bead returns this energy in rapid (>20 mu m/s) motion of the bead. Forceextension curves yield energy storage/retrieval in these devices that is very high. We also demonstrate remote activation and sensing- pulling the bead enables binding at a distant site. This work opens the door to easily designed and constructed micromechanical devices that bridge the molecular and colloidal/cellular scales.

Automated summary

This study extends the programmability of DNA oligonucleotides to the micrometer-colloidal scale, utilizing optical microscopy and holographic optical tweezers for real-time observations. The research team has designed a chemomechanical device based on DNA origami structures, demonstrating high energy storage/retrieval capability and remote activation. This work paves the way for easily designed micromechanical devices bridging the molecular and colloidal/cellular scales.