Template-directed nucleation and growth of inorganic nanoparticles on DNA scaffolds

Abstract

DNA origami: A DNA nanotube containing gold-binding peptides can nucleate nanoparticles of a discrete size from soluble chemical precursors. The peptide-DNA nanostructure was used to direct the assembly of an inorganic nanostructure, with gold nanoparticles distributed along the surface of the DNA nanotube (see picture). The resulting nanostructure is an important step forward in the synthesis of programmable inorganic materials by self-assembly. © 2009 Wily-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.