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Sequential self-assembly of DNA functionalized droplets

Author

Listed:
  • Yin Zhang

    (New York University)

  • Angus McMullen

    (New York University)

  • Lea-Laetitia Pontani

    (New York University
    Institut des NanoSciences de Paris, UMR 7588, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-University Pierre et Marie Curie)

  • Xiaojin He

    (New York University)

  • Ruojie Sha

    (New York University)

  • Nadrian C. Seeman

    (New York University)

  • Jasna Brujic

    (New York University)

  • Paul M. Chaikin

    (New York University)

Abstract

Complex structures and devices, both natural and manmade, are often constructed sequentially. From crystallization to embryogenesis, a nucleus or seed is formed and built upon. Sequential assembly allows for initiation, signaling, and logical programming, which are necessary for making enclosed, hierarchical structures. Although biology relies on such schemes, they have not been available in materials science. Here, we demonstrate programmed sequential self-assembly of DNA functionalized emulsions. The droplets are initially inert because the grafted DNA strands are pre-hybridized in pairs. Active strands on initiator droplets then displace one of the paired strands and thus release its complement, which in turn activates the next droplet in the sequence, akin to living polymerization. Our strategy provides time and logic control during the self-assembly process, and offers a new perspective on the synthesis of materials.

Suggested Citation

  • Yin Zhang & Angus McMullen & Lea-Laetitia Pontani & Xiaojin He & Ruojie Sha & Nadrian C. Seeman & Jasna Brujic & Paul M. Chaikin, 2017. "Sequential self-assembly of DNA functionalized droplets," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 8(1), pages 1-7, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:8:y:2017:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-017-00070-0
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-00070-0
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    Cited by:

    1. Manoj Kumar & Aniruddh Murali & Arvin Gopal Subramaniam & Rajesh Singh & Shashi Thutupalli, 2024. "Emergent dynamics due to chemo-hydrodynamic self-interactions in active polymers," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-12, December.

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