Resilient three-dimensional ordered architectures assembled from nanoparticles by DNA

Rapid developments of DNA-based assembly methods provide versatile capabilities in organizing nanoparticles (NPs) in three-dimensional (3D) organized nanomaterials, which is important for optics, catalysis, mechanics, and beyond. However, the use of these nanomaterials is often limited by the narrow range of conditions in which DNA lattices are stable. We demonstrate here an approach to creating an inorganic, silica-based replica of 3D periodic DNA-NP structures with different lattice symmetries. The created ordered nanomaterials, through the precise 3D mineralization, maintain the spatial topology of connections between NPs by DNA struts and exhibit a controllable degree of the porosity. The formed silicated DNA-NP lattices exhibit excellent resiliency. They are stable when exposed to extreme temperatures (>1000 degrees C), pressures (8 GPa), and harsh radiation conditions and can be processed by the conventional nanolithography methods. The presented approach allows the use of a DNA assembly strategy to create organized nanomaterials for a broad range of operational conditions.

Automated summary

The rapid development of DNA-based assembly methods allows for the creation of organized nanomaterials with versatile capabilities. By creating inorganic, silica-based replicas of 3D periodic DNA-NP structures, the formed nanomaterials demonstrate excellent resiliency and stability under extreme conditions. This approach opens up new possibilities for the use of DNA assembly strategies in creating organized nanomaterials for a broad range of operational conditions.