Synthesis of branched oligonucleotides as templates for the assembly of nanomaterials

Branched oligonucleotides with symmetric arms 6-15, which may contain biotin as a second recognition code, were prepared. These molecules are designed to be used for the directed assembly of nanomaterials. The branched structure of the desired oligonucleotides was confirmed by mass spectrometry on small branched oliognucleotides, by gel electrophoresis, and by hybridization with complementary oligonucleotide-nanoparticle conjugates, followed by visualization of the complexes by transmission electron microscopy.