The University of Sydney Nano Institute researchers have made a breakthrough in the field of molecular robots. They created innovative and programmable structures using DNA origami. The pioneering technology opens a new world of possibilities. It could lead to advancements in drug delivery, energy-efficient signal processing, and responsive materials.
Researchers can create novel biological structures by using ‘DNA origami’, which uses the inherent folding abilities of DNA (the fundamental component of life).
The team created over 50 creations as proof of concept, including a “nano-dinosaur,” a “dancing robotic,” and a miniaturized version of Australia that measures 150 nanometers wide, which is 1,000 times smaller than the width in a hair.
This study is led by Dr. Minh Tri Luu and Dr. Shelley Wickham. It examines how to develop modular DNA “voxels”. The innovative structure can be assembled in a complex three-dimensional form, expanding design possibilities.
This programmable structure can be tailored to perform specific functions. It allows for rapid prototyping. The versatility of these nanoscale robot systems is crucial for the creation of nanoscale robots capable in carrying out tasks within synthetic biology, materials science, and nanomedicine.
The results look like the engineering toys for children, Meccano or a cat’s-cradle. Instead of using macroscale metal, or string to make robots that have huge potential, we are now using nanoscale biology. Wickham said. He holds a joint post with the Schools of Chemistry, Physics and the Faculty of Science.
Dr Luu said: We’ve developed a class of nanomaterials that can be adjusted to suit the needs of different applications, from materials with adaptive properties to nanorobots which are autonomous and designed to destroy cancerous cells.
As a proof-of-concept, researchers have created tiny dinosaurs as well as a mini Australia that is only 150 nanometres in width. Credit: University of Sydney Nano Institute
The team uses extra DNA strands on the surface of nanostructures that act as programmable sites to build the voxels.
Dr. Luu said: These sites are like Velcro, but with different colors. They were designed to ensure that only DNA sequences of complementary color (or ‘colors”) can be connected.
The precision of the voxels’ interrelationships is unmatched by any other method. This allows for more complex and customizable structures to be created. This technology could be used to create nanoscale robot boxes that deliver drugs to specific areas of the body.
Researchers can use DNA origami to engineer nanobots that respond to biological signals, ensuring medications are delivered exactly where and when they are required. The targeted approach has the potential to improve cancer treatments while also reducing side effects.
Researchers are also exploring new materials that have the ability to change their properties in response to environmental conditions. These materials could be created to react to changes in pH or temperature, or to increase their load capacity. The medical, electronics, and computing sectors will be revolutionized by these adaptive materials.
This work allows us to envision a future where nanobots are able to perform a wide range of tasks from treating human bodies to creating futuristic electronic devices.” Wickham, Dr.
Researchers are exploring techniques that can be used to process optical signals in an energy-efficient manner, which may enhance the image verification technology. These systems could significantly improve the accuracy and speed of optical signal processing by leveraging DNA origami’s remarkable properties. This would lead to new breakthroughs in security and medical applications.
Dr Luu is a researcher at the School of Chemistry. Our work shows the amazing potential of DNA origami in creating versatile, programmable and nanostructures. This ability to create and assemble the components will open up new possibilities in nanotechnology.
Dr. Wickham: This research highlights not only the capability of DNA nanostructures, but also the importance of inter-disciplinary collaboration to advance science. “We are eager to learn how to apply our discoveries to the real world challenges of health, materials, and energy.”
Researchers are rapidly advancing these technologies. The vision of adaptive nanomachines that can function in complex environments, such as the human body, is becoming more and more real.
Reference to Journal:
- Minh Tri Luu, Jonathan F. Berengut, Jiahe Li, Jing-Bing Chen, Jasleen Kaur Daljit Singh, Kanako Coffi Dit Glieze, Matthew Turner, Karuna Skipper, Sreelakshmi Meppat, Hannah Fowler, William Close, Jonathan P. K. Doye, Ali Abbas, Shelley F. J. Wickham. Multicomponent DNA origami chains are used to fold reconfigurable nanomaterials. Science Robotics, 2024; DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adp2309
