DNA-functionalized colloidal crystals for macromolecular encapsulation

Dynamic Gold Nanostructures Based on DNA Self Assembly

The combination of DNA nanotechnology and Nano Gold (NG) plasmon has opened exciting possibilities for a new generation of functional plasmonic systems that exhibit tailored optical properties and find utility in various applications. In this review, the booming development of dynamic gold nanostructures are summarized, which are formed by DNA self-assembly using DNA-modified NG, DNA frameworks, and various driving forces. The utilization of bottom-up strategies enables precise control over the assembly of reversible and dynamic aggregations, nano-switcher structures, and robotic nanomachines capable of undergoing on-demand, reversible structural changes that profoundly impact their properties. Benefiting from the vast design possibilities, complete addressability, and sub-10 nm resolution, DNA duplexes, tiles, single-stranded tiles and origami structures serve as excellent platforms for constructing diverse 3D reconfigurable plasmonic nanostructures with tailored optical properties. Leveraging the responsive nature of DNA interactions, the fabrication of dynamic assemblies of NG becomes readily achievable, and environmental stimulation can be harnessed as a driving force for the nanomotors. It is envisioned that intelligent DNA-assembled NG nanodevices will assume increasingly important roles in the realms of biological, biomedical, and nanomechanical studies, opening a new avenue toward exploration and innovation.

A dual amplified gold nanoparticle-based biosensor for ultrasensitive and selective detection of fibrin

Ultrasensitive, selective, and non-invasive detection of fibrin in human serum is critical for disease diagnosis. So far, the development of high-performance and ultrasensitive biosensors maintains core challenges for biosensing. Herein, we designed a novel ribbon nanoprobe for ultrasensitive detection of fibrin. The probe contains gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that can not only link with homing peptide Cys-Arg-Glu-Lys-Ala (CREKA) to recognize fibrin but also carry long DNA belts to form G-quadruplex-based DNAzyme, catalyzing the chemiluminescence of luminol-hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) reaction. Combined with the second amplification procedure of rolling circle amplification (RCA), the assay exhibits excellent sensitivity with a detection limit of 0.04 fmol L-1 fibrin based on the 3-sigma. Furthermore, the biosensor shows high specificity on fibrin in samples because the structure of antibody-fibrin-homing peptide was employed to double recognize fibrin. Altogether, the simple and inexpensive approach may present a great potential for reliable detection of biomarkers.