Double-stranded DNA catenanes

What is it about?

We describe highly modular and biocompatible interlocked catenanes assembled from dsDNA nanorings of different radii. The robustness, homogeneity and well-defined shape of these assemblies were assessed by ultrahigh-resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM). The catenanes introduced here provide an alternative scaffold suitable for incorporation into functional DNA nanostructures that require a rigid spatial separation. The ring-mobility can be switched reversibly on and off.

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Why is it important?

Double stranded DNArepresents a supramolecular system par exellence and the field of DNA nanotechnology is a testament to its unique features. dsDNA-architectures containing circular components represent interesting building blocks for constructing DNA assemblies, but they have not been widely explored to date. The catenanes introduced here provide a scaffold suitable for incorporation into functional DNA nanostructures that require a rigid spatial separation.