A proximity-based programmable DNA nanoscale assembly line

Abstract

The assembly line is one of the key features of industrial production on the macroscopic scale, allowing programmability and sequential addition of parts to a final product. In this chapter, we use DNA to extend this notion to the nanoscale by the judicious combination of three DNA-based components: a DNA origami tile that provides a framework and track for the assembly process, three two-state DNA cassettes that can be programmed to donate cargo and are attached to the tile, and a DNA walker that can move on the track to collect cargo.