Self-Organization and Interactions Between Inorganic Nanoparticles and DNA

The main challenges of nanotechnology are organization of nanomaterials, determination of the consequences of the nanoscale, and utilization of nanoscale characteristics to advance technology [1, 2]. This work seeks to address all three of these challenges through considering interactions between inorganic and organic materials. The self-organization of nanoparticles with DNA can lead to a novel class of materials with unique properties. Developing an understanding of the interactions between inorganic materials and biological materials can also provide insight into the safety of nanoscale biomaterials. Additionally, materials made from inorganic nanoparticles and DNA could significantly advance the next generation of DNA-based diagnostic or presymptomatic genetic testing methods or nanoelectronic devices. The initial stages of this work specifically seek: (a) to create stable organizations of nanoparticles and DNA, (b) to characterize these superstructures, and (c) to provide insight into a new, versatile class of materials with a range of functions.

1. Tang, Z., et al., Self-Assembly of CdTe Nanocrystals into Free-Floating Sheets. Science, 2006. 314(5797): p. 274-278.

2. Tang, Z.Y., N.A. Kotov, and M. Giersig, Spontaneous organization of single CdTe nanoparticles into luminescent nanowires. Science, 2002. 297(5579): p. 237-240.