Artificial molecular switches made from DNA

Abstract

The unique biochemical and biophysical properties of DNA can be utilized to construct nanoscale machines and switches, among them devices which can stretch and rotate, translocate, or perform computations. Switchable devices based on aptamers can controllably bind or release enzymes, which can be used to control biochemical reactions. DNA can also be used as a component for switchable materials, e.g. for the realization of switchable gels. These might find applications in the controlled release of particles or substances. An exciting possibility lies in the interaction of DNA nanodevices with RNA molecules. For instance, the behavior of DNA nanodevices may be controlled by natural or artificial gene regulatory mechanisms.