Project description
A DNA-based molecular printer
DNA nanotechnology takes DNA – the molecule that stores genetic information – out of its biological context and uses it to assemble structural motifs. DNA nanostructures have numerous applications, for example in diagnostics, biophysics and drug delivery. The EU-funded DNAMAKER project will design wireframe DNA nanostructures and study their assembly. The ultimate goal is to generate a molecular printer that will fold DNA building blocks like origami to produce complex 3D scaffolds.
Objective
In the last decades, DNA nanotechnology has been established as a robust method for the production of static, large two- and three-dimensional structures as well as dynamic systems based on the interaction of multiple small strands through strand displacement. In the proposed project, Dr. Erik Benson will join Professor Turberfield’s group to develop the first demonstration of atomically precise manufacturing based on DNA nanotechnology. In his Ph.D. studies, Erik developed methods for the design of wireframe DNA nanostructures and used several experimental techniques to study their assembly. He will combine these skills with Professor Turberfield’s expertise in DNA nanomachines and dynamic DNA toehold systems to develop a first-generation molecular printer. The printer will be constructed by DNA origami, and consist of a guide rail that host a sliding write head whose movements are externally controlled by the introduction of DNA strands. The addition of activator strands will trigger a DNA hybridization catalyst placed at the tip of the write head, causing it to modify the target surface at the precisely determined positions. The principles developed in this project can be expanded into two and three dimensions by the connection of multiple linear motors. The development of robust, externally controlled linear motion at the nanoscale can also find application in other fields including nano-manipulation, biophysics, and controlled catalysis.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EFCoordinator
OX1 2JD Oxford
United Kingdom