The construction of synthetic systems that can replicate cellular components, and their integration into cells in order to rewire natural signal transduction systems, are two landmark objectives in the field of synthetic biology, and can be readily addressed by supramolecular chemists. Supramolecular systems en route to these goals have been recently reported. Nevertheless, the level of complexity and control is still in its infancy when compared to natural systems. Merging biological components such as oligonucleotides, with synthetic supramolecular systems, we stand to benefit from the exceptional structural and functional features of biological and synthetic building blocks while at the same time broadening their functionality. Thus, the general goal of this project was to shed light on the dynamic phenomena of multicomponent hybrid self-assembly processes. To achieve this aim supramolecular polymers were merged with DNA molecules. The supramolecular wire functions as a dynamic multiva-lent receptor. DNA is a suitable building block for the formation of multivalent ligands. The programmability and predictable assembly of DNA duplex formation allows the control of the distribution, orientation and density of the ligands in the scaffold. In particular the main objectives were to understand the influence of linking DNA to supramolecular systems. It was also investigated how this 1-D platforms can be used to display dynamic binding sites. These bioinspired functions also are expected to pave the way towards other emerging properties such as self-replication, and eventually the mimicking of the cellular life cycle in minimal life systems.
