Importance of DNA Nanotechnology

DNA, which contains repetitive functional residues, acts as the genetic code for the survival of all living beings on the earth. It has gradually been recognized as a polymeric nanostructure. Nucleic acid nanotechnology aims to create nanoscale objects, materials, and devices by folding and combining DNA or RNA components. DNA nanotechnology is useful in many areas, including fundamental biology, academic and industrial fields. With the rapid advancement of structural transformations, structural DNAs have been assembled into various forms, such as X- or Y-shaped DNAs.

Fig.1 Synthesis of modular RNA−DNA hybrid nano-shapes. (Chen & Hermann, 2021)

Due to their unique characteristics, such as superior electromagnetics and inherent biocompatibility, inorganic nanomaterials have long been used for biological purposes. To use them within the cytosol, it is necessary to reduce their size. Using structural DNA nanomaterials has significantly improved the ability to employ inorganic compounds.

Custom Hybrid DNA Synthesis Service at CD BioGlyco

Hybrid materials made of structural DNAs and inorganic compounds show significant progress in various cutting-edge applications, including biological uses. Therefore, CD BioGlyco has developed various technologies for the synthesis of various hybrid materials made of structural DNAs and inorganics. Those hybrids have potential as future material substitutes for some practical bio-applications.

DNA-gold nanomaterial hybrid

• We combine two different gold nanomaterials with DNA origami in a synergetic manner. The DNA strand is employed as a template for DNA origami. A capture strand is then extended from the origami and specifically combined with complementary strands embedded on the surface of gold nanorods.
• The hybrid of gold nanorods and DNA origami has shown great potential as contrast agents for optoacoustic imaging. These hybrids are ideal for in vivo applications because they provide better resolution quality, even with lower doses.
• Additionally, these hybrids function as photothermal therapy agents. When exposed to NIR irradiation, they effectively inhibit tumor regrowth and prolong the survival of diseased mice.

Fig.2 DNA origami-gold nanorod (DO-GNR) theranostic system. (Jiang, et al., 2015)

Agarose gel is utilized to purify the hybrids. We employ a freeze-squeeze column technique to slice and extract the target products from the gel. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) and the ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrometer are utilized for the characterization of the purified nanostructures.

DNA-magnetic nanoparticle hybrid

Iron oxide nanoparticles have gained significant attention in various practical applications due to their super-paramagnetism in magnetic fields. We offer an approach for arraying magnetic nanoparticles on the surface of DNA nanotubes. The positioning of magnetic nanoparticles on the outer surface of DNA nanotubes is achieved through the self-assembly of polynucleotide staples using an origami process. To arrange the staples on the surface of DNA nanotubes, we use a biotin labeling technique to selectively label some of the staples.

Fig.3 The synthesis process of DNA-magnetic nanoparticle hybrid. (CD BioGlyco)

These hybrids have the potential to arrange multiple nanoparticles. They are valuable as functionalized chimeric nanocarriers for the development of innovative nanodrugs and nano biosensors.

DNA-silver nanomaterial hybrid

Compared to gold nanoparticles of the same size, silver nanoparticles exhibit higher extinction coefficients. They are more suitable for plasmonic applications such as enhanced Raman scattering. Conversely, silver nanoparticles have lower Ag-S bond energy compared to Au-S, making it more challenging to conjugate them with monothiol-modified DNA. Additionally, silver nanoparticles are more susceptible to oxidation in nanoparticle form and have a tendency toward irreversible aggregation. We link monothiol-modified DNA to silver nanoparticles which surmounts problems associated with adsorption kinetics at neutral or slightly basic pH. DNA-silver nanomaterial hybrid can be used in DNA detection through sandwich assays and electrochemical detection methods.

Applications

• DNA-gold nanomaterial hybrids can be used in nucleic acid detection, colorimetric detection of miscellaneous analytes, and non-covalent gene delivery.
• Furthermore, DNA-gold nanomaterial hybrids have been covalently attached to anti-cancer drugs and are employed as carriers for drug delivery purposes.
• DNA-magnetic nanoparticle hybrids act as valuable tools for the development of innovative nanodrugs and nano biosensors.
• DNA-silver nanomaterial hybrid can be used for the detection of small molecules and as a DNA sensor with detection.

Advantages

• Our DNA hybrids combine the benefits of DNA nanostructures and inorganic nanomaterials, presenting high potential in various fields.
• Our method possesses simplicity and programmability and constructs a functional nanoarray of magnetic nanoparticles on the surface of DNA templates.
• We initiate an active area of research that encompasses both fundamental scientific investigations into intrinsic properties and practical applications.

CD BioGlyco is a highly topping company in the field of glycobiology. We are widely recognized for exceptional proficiency in Custom DNA Synthesis Service. Our company is confident in our extensive knowledge in this field. With an experienced team, we offer a comprehensive range of services to meet the unique requirements of our clients. If you would like to know more about our services, please feel free to contact us for further information.