1
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Patiño Padial T, Del Grosso E, Gentile S, Baranda Pellejero L, Mestre R, Paffen LJMM, Sánchez S, Ricci F. Synthetic DNA-based Swimmers Driven by Enzyme Catalysis. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12664-12671. [PMID: 38587543 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Here, we report DNA-based synthetic nanostructures decorated with enzymes (hereafter referred to as DNA-enzyme swimmers) that self-propel by converting the enzymatic substrate to the product in solution. The DNA-enzyme swimmers are obtained from tubular DNA structures that self-assemble spontaneously by the hybridization of DNA tiles. We functionalize these DNA structures with two different enzymes, urease and catalase, and show that they exhibit concentration-dependent movement and enhanced diffusion upon addition of the enzymatic substrate (i.e., urea and H2O2). To demonstrate the programmability of such DNA-based swimmers, we also engineer DNA strands that displace the enzyme from the DNA scaffold, thus acting as molecular "brakes" on the DNA swimmers. These results serve as a first proof of principle for the development of synthetic DNA-based enzyme-powered swimmers that can self-propel in fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Patiño Padial
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Het Kranenveld 14, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorena Baranda Pellejero
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Rafael Mestre
- School of Electronics and Computer Science (ECS), University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, U.K
| | - Lars J M M Paffen
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Het Kranenveld 14, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel Sánchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri i Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona 08010, Spain
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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2
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Brannetti S, Gentile S, Chamorro-Garcia A, Barbero L, Del Grosso E, Ricci F. Decorated DNA-Based Scaffolds as Lateral Flow Biosensors. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202313243. [PMID: 37804080 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202313243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Here we develop Lateral Flow Assays (LFAs) that employ as functional elements DNA-based structures decorated with reporter tags and recognition elements. We have rationally re-engineered tile-based DNA tubular structures that can act as scaffolds and can be decorated with recognition elements of different nature (i.e. antigens, aptamers or proteins) and with orthogonal fluorescent dyes. As a proof-of-principle we have developed sandwich and competitive multiplex lateral flow platforms for the detection of several targets, ranging from small molecules (digoxigenin, Dig and dinitrophenol, DNP), to antibodies (Anti-Dig, Anti-DNP and Anti-MUC1/EGFR bispecific antibodies) and proteins (thrombin). Coupling the advantages of functional DNA-based scaffolds together with the simplicity of LFAs, our approach offers the opportunity to detect a wide range of targets with nanomolar sensitivity and high specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Brannetti
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alejandro Chamorro-Garcia
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Barbero
- RBM-Merck an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Via Ribes 1, 10010, Turin, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
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3
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Abstract
Inspired by naturally occurring regulatory mechanisms that allow complex temporal pulse features with programmable delays, we demonstrate here a strategy to achieve temporally programmed pulse output signals in DNA-based strand displacement reactions (SDRs). To achieve this, we rationally designed input strands that, once bound to their target duplex, can be gradually degraded, resulting in a pulse output signal. We also designed blocker strands that suppress strand displacement and determine the time at which the pulse reaction is generated. We show that by controlling the degradation rate of blocker and input strands, we can finely control the delayed pulse output over a range of 10 h. We also prove that it is possible to orthogonally delay two different pulse reactions in the same solution by taking advantage of the specificity of the degradation reactions for the input and blocker strands. Finally, we show here two possible applications of such delayed pulse SDRs: the time-programmed pulse decoration of DNA nanostructures and the sequentially appearing and self-erasing formation of DNA-based patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Bucci
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University
of Rome, Tor Vergata,
Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrick Irmisch
- Molecular
Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University
of Rome, Tor Vergata,
Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ralf Seidel
- Molecular
Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department
of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University
of Rome, Tor Vergata,
Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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4
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Farag N, Đorđević M, Del Grosso E, Ricci F. Dynamic and Reversible Decoration of DNA-Based Scaffolds. Adv Mater 2023; 35:e2211274. [PMID: 36739507 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
An approach to achieving dynamic and reversible decoration of DNA-based scaffolds is demonstrated here. To do this, rationally engineered DNA tiles containing enzyme-responsive strands covalently conjugated to different molecular labels are employed. These strands are designed to be recognized and degraded by specific enzymes (i.e., Ribonuclease H, RNase H, or Uracil DNA Glycosylase, UDG) inducing their spontaneous de-hybridization from the assembled tile and replacement by a new strand conjugated to a different label. Multiple enzyme-responsive strands that specifically respond to different enzymes allow for dynamic, orthogonal, and reversible decoration of the DNA structures. As a proof-of-principle of the strategy, the possibility to orthogonally control the distribution of different labels (i.e., fluorophores and small molecules) on the same scaffold without crosstalk is demonstrated. By doing so, DNA scaffolds that display different antibody recognition patterns are obtained. The approach offers the possibility to control the decoration of higher-order supramolecular assemblies (including origami) with several functional moieties to achieve functional biomaterials with improved adaptability, precision, and sensing capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Farag
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Milan Đorđević
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
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5
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Gentile S, Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Autonomous and Programmable Reorganization of DNA-Based Polymers Using Redox Chemistry. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202300394. [PMID: 37076949 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202300394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate here a strategy that allows the programmable and autonomous reorganization of self-assembled DNA polymers using redox chemistry. We have rationally designed different DNA monomers (tiles) that can co-assemble into tubular structures. The tiles can be orthogonally activated/deactivated with disulfide-linked DNA fuel strands that are degraded over time upon reduction because of the presence of a reducing agent in the system. The concentration of the disulfide fuels determines the activation kinetics of each DNA tile, which controls the degree of order/disorder in the formed co-polymer. The disulfide-reduction pathway can be employed together with enzymatic fuel-degradation pathways providing an additional level of control in the re-organization of DNA structures. Taking advantage of the different pH-sensitivities of disulfide-thiol and enzymatic reactions, we show that we can control the order in DNA-based co-polymers as a function of pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonard J Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 1, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
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6
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Périllat VJ, Del Grosso E, Berton C, Ricci F, Pezzato C. Controlling DNA nanodevices with light-switchable buffers. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:2146-2149. [PMID: 36727426 PMCID: PMC9933455 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc06525h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Control over synthetic DNA-based nanodevices can be achieved with a variety of physical and chemical stimuli. Actuation with light, however, is as advantageous as difficult to implement without modifying DNA strands with photo-switchable groups. Herein, we show that DNA nanodevices can be controlled using visible light in photo-switchable aqueous buffer solutions in a reversible and highly programmable fashion. The strategy presented here is non-invasive and allows the remote control with visible light of complex operations of DNA-based nanodevices such as the reversible release/loading of cargo molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Jean Périllat
- Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)1015 LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Cesare Berton
- Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)1015 LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristian Pezzato
- Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padua, Italy.
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7
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Wu Y, Ranallo S, Del Grosso E, Chamoro-Garcia A, Ennis HL, Milosavić N, Yang K, Kippin T, Ricci F, Stojanovic M, Plaxco KW. Using Spectroscopy to Guide the Adaptation of Aptamers into Electrochemical Aptamer-Based Sensors. Bioconjug Chem 2023; 34:124-132. [PMID: 36044602 PMCID: PMC10799766 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical aptamer-based (EAB) sensors utilize the binding-induced conformational change of an electrode-attached, redox-reporter-modified aptamer to transduce target recognition into an easily measurable electrochemical output. Because this signal transduction mechanism is single-step and rapidly reversible, EAB sensors support high-frequency, real-time molecular measurements, and because it recapitulates the reagentless, conformation-linked signaling seen in vivo among naturally occurring receptors, EAB sensors are selective enough to work in the complex, time-varying environments found in the living body. The fabrication of EAB sensors, however, requires that their target-recognizing aptamer be modified such that (1) it undergoes the necessary binding-induced conformational change and (2) that the thermodynamics of this "conformational switch" are tuned to ensure that they reflect an acceptable trade-off between affinity and signal gain. That is, even if an "as-selected" aptamer achieves useful affinity and specificity, it may fail when adapted to the EAB platform because it lacks the binding-induced conformational change required to support EAB signaling. In this paper we reveal the spectroscopy-guided approaches we use to modify aptamers such that they support the necessary binding-induced conformational change. Specifically, using newly reported aptamers, we demonstrate the systematic design of EAB sensors achieving clinically and physiologically relevant specificity, limits of detection, and dynamic range against the targets methotrexate and tryptophan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Simona Ranallo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alejandro Chamoro-Garcia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Herbert L Ennis
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Nenad Milosavić
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Kyungae Yang
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Tod Kippin
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Milan Stojanovic
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Kevin W Plaxco
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
- Biological Engineering Graduate Program, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
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8
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Abstract
Here, we demonstrate a strategy to rationally program a delayed onset of toehold-mediated DNA strand displacement reactions (SDRs). The approach is based on blocker strands that efficiently inhibit the strand displacement by binding to the toehold domain of the target DNA. Specific enzymatic degradation of the blocker strand subsequently enables SDR. The kinetics of the blocker enzymatic degradation thus controls the time at which the SDR starts. By varying the concentration of the blocker strand and the concentration of the enzyme, we show that we can finely tune and modulate the delayed onset of SDR. Additionally, we show that the strategy is versatile and can be orthogonally controlled by different enzymes each specifically targeting a different blocker strand. We designed and established three different delayed SDRs using RNase H and two DNA repair enzymes (formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase and uracil-DNA glycosylase) and corresponding blockers. The achieved temporal delay can be programed with high flexibility without undesired leak and can be conveniently predicted using kinetic modeling. Finally, we show three possible applications of the delayed SDRs to temporally control the ligand release from a DNA nanodevice, the inhibition of a target protein by a DNA aptamer, and the output signal generated by a DNA logic circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Bucci
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrick Irmisch
- Molecular Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ralf Seidel
- Molecular Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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9
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Farag N, Ercolani G, Del Grosso E, Ricci F. DNA Tile Self‐Assembly Guided by Base Excision Repair Enzymes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202208367. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202208367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nada Farag
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Gianfranco Ercolani
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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10
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Farag N, Ercolani G, Del Grosso E, Ricci F. DNA Tile Self‐Assembly Guided by Base Excision Repair Enzymes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202208367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nada Farag
- Universita degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata Chemistry ITALY
| | | | | | - Francesco Ricci
- University of Rome, Tor Vergata Department of Chemistry Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome ITALY
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11
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Del Grosso E, Irmisch P, Gentile S, Prins LJ, Seidel R, Ricci F. Dissipative Control over the Toehold-Mediated DNA Strand Displacement Reaction. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202201929. [PMID: 35315568 PMCID: PMC9324813 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202201929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Here we show a general approach to achieve dissipative control over toehold‐mediated strand‐displacement, the most widely employed reaction in the field of DNA nanotechnology. The approach relies on rationally re‐engineering the classic strand displacement reaction such that the high‐energy invader strand (fuel) is converted into a low‐energy waste product through an energy‐dissipating reaction allowing the spontaneous return to the original state over time. We show that such dissipative control over the toehold‐mediated strand displacement process is reversible (up to 10 cycles), highly controllable and enables unique temporal activation of DNA systems. We show here two possible applications of this strategy: the transient labelling of DNA structures and the additional temporal control of cascade reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrick Irmisch
- Molecular Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Leonard J Prins
- Department of Chemical fSciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 1, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Ralf Seidel
- Molecular Biophysics Group, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
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12
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Abstract
DNA nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool to precisely design and control molecular circuits, machines and nanostructures. A major goal in this field is to build devices with life-like properties, such as directional motion, transport, communication and adaptation. Here we provide an overview of the nascent field of dissipative DNA nanotechnology, which aims at developing life-like systems by combining programmable nucleic-acid reactions with energy-dissipating processes. We first delineate the notions, terminology and characteristic features of dissipative DNA-based systems and then we survey DNA-based circuits, devices and materials whose functions are controlled by chemical fuels. We emphasize how energy consumption enables these systems to perform work and cyclical tasks, in contrast with DNA devices that operate without dissipative processes. The ability to take advantage of chemical fuel molecules brings dissipative DNA systems closer to the active molecular devices that exist in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Franco
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Leonard J Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Del Grosso E, Irmisch P, Gentile S, Prins LJ, Seidel R, Ricci F. Dissipative Control over the Toehold‐Mediated DNA Strand Displacement Reaction. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202201929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Patrick Irmisch
- Molecular Biophysics Group Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics Universität Leipzig 04103 Leipzig Germany
| | - Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical fSciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Ralf Seidel
- Molecular Biophysics Group Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics Universität Leipzig 04103 Leipzig Germany
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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14
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Irmisch P, Rutkauskas M, Del Grosso E, Ricci F, Seidel R. Modelling DNA-strand displacement reactions from single base-pair steps to reaction networks. Biophys J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.11.1872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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15
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Gentile S, Del Grosso E, Pungchai PE, Franco E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Spontaneous Reorganization of DNA-Based Polymers in Higher Ordered Structures Fueled by RNA. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:20296-20301. [PMID: 34843256 PMCID: PMC8662731 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c09503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
We demonstrate a strategy that allows
for the spontaneous reconfiguration
of self-assembled DNA polymers exploiting RNA as chemical fuel. To
do this, we have rationally designed orthogonally addressable DNA
building blocks that can be transiently deactivated by RNA fuels and
subtracted temporarily from participation in the self-assembly process.
Through a fine modulation of the rate at which the building blocks
are reactivated we can carefully control the final composition of
the polymer and convert a disordered polymer in a higher order polymer,
which is disfavored from a thermodynamic point of view. We measure
the dynamic reconfiguration via fluorescent signals and confocal microscopy,
and we derive a kinetic model that captures the experimental results.
Our approach suggests a novel route toward the development of biomolecular
materials in which engineered chemical reactions support the autonomous
spatial reorganization of multiple components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Passa E Pungchai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California at Los Angeles, 410 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Elisa Franco
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and of Bioengineering, University of California at Los Angeles, 420 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Leonard J Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 1, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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16
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Gentile S, Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Reorganization of Self‐Assembled DNA‐Based Polymers using Orthogonally Addressable Building Blocks**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202101378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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17
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Gentile S, Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Reorganization of Self‐Assembled DNA‐Based Polymers using Orthogonally Addressable Building Blocks**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:12911-12917. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202101378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome, Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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Bertucci A, Porchetta A, Del Grosso E, Patiño T, Idili A, Ricci F. Protein‐Controlled Actuation of Dynamic Nucleic Acid Networks by Using Synthetic DNA Translators**. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202008553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bertucci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Alessandro Porchetta
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Tania Patiño
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Andrea Idili
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) Campus UAB Bellaterra 08193 Barcelona Spain
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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19
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Del Grosso E, Ponzo I, Ragazzon G, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Disulfide‐Linked Allosteric Modulators for Multi‐cycle Kinetic Control of DNA‐Based Nanodevices. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202008007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Irene Ponzo
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Giulio Ragazzon
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Trieste Via L. Giorgieri 1 34127 Trieste Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
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20
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Del Grosso E, Ponzo I, Ragazzon G, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Disulfide‐Linked Allosteric Modulators for Multi‐cycle Kinetic Control of DNA‐Based Nanodevices. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:21058-21063. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202008007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Irene Ponzo
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Giulio Ragazzon
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Trieste Via L. Giorgieri 1 34127 Trieste Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1 00133 Rome Italy
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21
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Bertucci A, Porchetta A, Del Grosso E, Patiño T, Idili A, Ricci F. Protein-Controlled Actuation of Dynamic Nucleic Acid Networks by Using Synthetic DNA Translators*. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:20577-20581. [PMID: 32737920 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202008553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Integrating dynamic DNA nanotechnology with protein-controlled actuation will expand our ability to process molecular information. We have developed a strategy to actuate strand displacement reactions using DNA-binding proteins by engineering synthetic DNA translators that convert specific protein-binding events into trigger inputs through a programmed conformational change. We have constructed synthetic DNA networks responsive to two different DNA-binding proteins, TATA-binding protein and Myc-Max, and demonstrated multi-input activation of strand displacement reactions. We achieved protein-controlled regulation of a synthetic RNA and of an enzyme through artificial DNA-based communication, showing the potential of our molecular system in performing further programmable tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bertucci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Porchetta
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Tania Patiño
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Idili
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133, Rome, Italy
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22
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Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Cover Picture: Transient DNA‐Based Nanostructures Controlled by Redox Inputs (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 32/2020). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202006641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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23
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Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Titelbild: Transient DNA‐Based Nanostructures Controlled by Redox Inputs (Angew. Chem. 32/2020). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202006641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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24
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Bissonnette S, Del Grosso E, Simon AJ, Plaxco KW, Ricci F, Vallée-Bélisle A. Optimizing the Specificity Window of Biomolecular Receptors Using Structure-Switching and Allostery. ACS Sens 2020; 5:1937-1942. [PMID: 32297508 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.0c00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To ensure maximum specificity (i.e., minimize cross-reactivity with structurally similar analogues of the desired target), most bioassays invoke "stringency", the careful tuning of the conditions employed (e.g., pH, ionic strength, or temperature). Willingness to control assay conditions will fall, however, as quantitative, single-step biosensors begin to replace multistep analytical processes. This is especially true for sensors deployed in vivo, where the tuning of such parameters is not just inconvenient but impossible. In response, we describe here the rational adaptation of two strategies employed by nature to tune the affinity of biomolecular receptors so as to optimize the placement of their specificity "windows" without the need to alter measurement conditions: structure-switching and allosteric control. We quantitatively validate these approaches using two distinct, DNA-based receptors: a simple, linear-chain DNA suitable for detecting a complementary DNA strand and a structurally complex DNA aptamer used for the detection of a small-molecule drug. Using these models, we show that, without altering assay conditions, structure-switching and allostery can tune the concentration range over which a receptor achieves optimal specificity over orders of magnitude, thus optimally matching the specificity window with the range of target concentrations expected to be seen in a given application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Bissonnette
- Laboratory of Biosensors & Nanomachines, Département de Chimie, Département de Biochimie et Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biostrutture e Biosistemi “INBB”, Rome 00136, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesco Ricci
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biostrutture e Biosistemi “INBB”, Rome 00136, Italy
| | - Alexis Vallée-Bélisle
- Laboratory of Biosensors & Nanomachines, Département de Chimie, Département de Biochimie et Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
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25
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Del Grosso E, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Transient DNA‐Based Nanostructures Controlled by Redox Inputs. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:13238-13245. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202002180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences University of Padua Via Marzolo 1 35131 Padua Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemistry University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 00133 Rome Italy
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Del Grosso E, Ragazzon G, Prins LJ, Ricci F. Fuel-Responsive Allosteric DNA-Based Aptamers for the Transient Release of ATP and Cocaine. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:5582-5586. [PMID: 30715777 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201812885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We show herein that allostery offers a key strategy for the design of out-of-equilibrium systems by engineering allosteric DNA-based nanodevices for the transient loading and release of small organic molecules. To demonstrate the generality of our approach, we used two model DNA-based aptamers that bind ATP and cocaine through a target-induced conformational change. We re-engineered these aptamers so that their affinity towards their specific target is controlled by a DNA sequence acting as an allosteric inhibitor. The use of an enzyme that specifically cleaves the inhibitor only when it is bound to the aptamer generates a transient allosteric control that leads to the release of ATP or cocaine from the aptamers. Our approach confirms that the programmability and predictability of nucleic acids make synthetic DNA/RNA the perfect candidate material to re-engineer synthetic receptors that can undergo chemical fuel-triggered release of small-molecule cargoes and to rationally design non-equilibrium systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Giulio Ragazzon
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 1, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Leonard J Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo 1, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, 00133, Italy
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Rossetti M, Del Grosso E, Ranallo S, Mariottini D, Idili A, Bertucci A, Porchetta A. Programmable RNA-based systems for sensing and diagnostic applications. Anal Bioanal Chem 2019; 411:4293-4302. [PMID: 30734852 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-019-01622-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The emerging field of RNA nanotechnology harnesses the versatility of RNA molecules to generate nature-inspired systems with programmable structure and functionality. Such methodology has therefore gained appeal in the fields of biosensing and diagnostics, where specific molecular recognition and advanced input/output processing are demanded. The use of RNA modules and components allows for achieving diversity in structure and function, for processing information with molecular precision, and for programming dynamic operations on the grounds of predictable non-covalent interactions. When RNA nanotechnology meets bioanalytical chemistry, sensing of target molecules can be performed by harnessing programmable interactions of RNA modules, advanced field-ready biosensors can be manufactured by interfacing RNA-based devices with supporting portable platforms, and RNA sensors can be engineered to be genetically encoded allowing for real-time imaging of biomolecules in living cells. In this article, we report recent advances in RNA-based sensing technologies and discuss current trends in RNA nanotechnology-enabled biomedical diagnostics. In particular, we describe programmable sensors that leverage modular designs comprising dynamic aptamer-based units, synthetic RNA nanodevices able to perform target-responsive regulation of gene expression, and paper-based sensors incorporating artificial RNA networks. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Rossetti
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Ranallo
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Mariottini
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Idili
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, USA
| | - Alessandro Bertucci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Alessandro Porchetta
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
The use of synthetic DNA to design and build molecular machines and well-defined structures at the nanoscale has greatly impacted the field of nanotechnology. Here we expand the current toolkit in this field by demonstrating an efficient, quantitative, and versatile approach that allows us to remotely control DNA-based reactions and DNA nanostructure self-assembly using electronic inputs. To do so we have deposited onto the surface of disposable chips different DNA input strands that upon the application of a cathodic potential can be desorbed in a remote and controlled way and trigger DNA-based reactions and DNA nanostructure self-assembly. We demonstrate that this effect is specific and versatile and allows the orthogonal control of multiple reactions and multiple structures in the same solution. Moreover, the strategy is highly tunable and can be finely modulated by varying the cathodic potential, the period of applied potential, and the density of the DNA strand on the chip surface. Our approach thus represents a versatile way to remotely control DNA-based circuits and nanostructure assembly and can allow new possible applications of DNA-based nanotools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Amodio
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies , University of Rome , Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica , 00133 , Rome , Italy
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies , University of Rome , Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica , 00133 , Rome , Italy
| | - Alessandra Troina
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies , University of Rome , Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica , 00133 , Rome , Italy
| | - Ernesto Placidi
- Istituto di Struttura della Materia (ISM-CNR) , via Fosso del Cavaliere 100 , 00133 Rome , Italy
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Science and Technologies , University of Rome , Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica , 00133 , Rome , Italy
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Del Grosso E, Idili A, Porchetta A, Ricci F. A modular clamp-like mechanism to regulate the activity of nucleic-acid target-responsive nanoswitches with external activators. Nanoscale 2016; 8:18057-18061. [PMID: 27714163 DOI: 10.1039/c6nr06026a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Here we demonstrate a general and modular approach to regulate the activity of target-responsive DNA-based nanoswitches. We do so by coupling together two DNA-based responsive elements: a triplex-forming clamp-like probe able to bind a specific DNA sequence and a split aptamer selected to bind a small molecule. In the presence of the specific target of one of the above responsive elements, the nanoswitch partially folds and its ability to bind the second target is restored. With this approach we can finely modulate the affinity of both DNA-recognition elements and aptamers using an external ligand. The modular nature of our strategy makes it easily generalizable to different DNA based recognition elements. As a demonstration of this we successfully designed five different DNA nanoswitches whose responsiveness can be regulated by different molecular effectors and targets. The convenience with which this mechanism is designed suggests that it may prove a useful tool by which sensors, genetic networks and other biotechnology devices employing nucleic-acid based receptors can be controlled with an external input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome 00133, Italy.
| | - Andrea Idili
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome 00133, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Porchetta
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome 00133, Italy.
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Chemistry Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome 00133, Italy.
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Abstract
Functional molecular nanodevices and nanomachines have attracted a growing interest for their potential use in life science and nanomedicine. In particular, due to their versatility and modularity DNA-based nanodevices appear extremely promising. However, a limitation of such devices is represented by the limited number of molecular stimuli and cues that can be used to control and regulate their function. Here we demonstrate the possibility to rationally control and regulate DNA-based nanodevices using biocatalytic reactions catalyzed by different enzymes. To demonstrate the versatility of our approach, we have employed three model DNA-based systems and three different enzymes (belonging to several classes, i.e., transferases and hydrolases). The possibility to use enzymes and enzymatic substrates as possible cues to operate DNA-based molecular nanodevices will expand the available toolbox of molecular stimuli to be used in the field of DNA nanotechnology and could open the door to many applications including enzyme-induced drug delivery and enzyme-triggered nanostructures assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Science and Technology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Anne-Marie Dallaire
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Nanomachines, Département de
Chimie, Université de Montréal, Québec QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Alexis Vallée-Bélisle
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Nanomachines, Département de
Chimie, Université de Montréal, Québec QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Science and Technology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
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32
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Bocedi A, Fabrini R, Farrotti A, Stella L, Ketterman AJ, Pedersen JZ, Allocati N, Lau PCK, Grosse S, Eltis LD, Ruzzini A, Edwards TE, Morici L, Del Grosso E, Guidoni L, Bovi D, Lo Bello M, Federici G, Parker MW, Board PG, Ricci G. The impact of nitric oxide toxicity on the evolution of the glutathione transferase superfamily: a proposal for an evolutionary driving force. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:24936-47. [PMID: 23828197 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.476135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are protection enzymes capable of conjugating glutathione (GSH) to toxic compounds. During evolution an important catalytic cysteine residue involved in GSH activation was replaced by serine or, more recently, by tyrosine. The utility of these replacements represents an enigma because they yield no improvements in the affinity toward GSH or in its reactivity. Here we show that these changes better protect the cell from nitric oxide (NO) insults. In fact the dinitrosyl·diglutathionyl·iron complex (DNDGIC), which is formed spontaneously when NO enters the cell, is highly toxic when free in solution but completely harmless when bound to GSTs. By examining 42 different GSTs we discovered that only the more recently evolved Tyr-based GSTs display enough affinity for DNDGIC (KD < 10(-9) M) to sequester the complex efficiently. Ser-based GSTs and Cys-based GSTs show affinities 10(2)-10(4) times lower, not sufficient for this purpose. The NO sensitivity of bacteria that express only Cys-based GSTs could be related to the low or null affinity of their GSTs for DNDGIC. GSTs with the highest affinity (Tyr-based GSTs) are also over-represented in the perinuclear region of mammalian cells, possibly for nucleus protection. On the basis of these results we propose that GST evolution in higher organisms could be linked to the defense against NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Bocedi
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Fabrini R, Bocedi A, Del Grosso E, Morici L, Federici G, Palleschi A, Ricci G. Erythrocyte glutathione transferase: A novel biomarker to check environmental pollution hazardous for humans. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 426:71-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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