The unique features of DNA enable the organization of nanostructures into larger superstructures and macroscopic superlattices with well-defined orientations, spacing and size. Current knowledge and experiences with DNA-organized supramolecular structures revolve around exploiting DNA-linked rigid nanostructures, such as gold nanoparticles, where the rigidity imparts directionality to hybridization interactions. A completely different framework of interactions is induced when the nanostructure is deformable, and molecules are able to laterally diffuse inside the assembly causing a constant fluctuation in exposed molecular groups bearing the DNA. Thus, the unique properties of the resulting organization open up a new field of soft DNA-linked compartment assemblies. Soft nanocompartments, especially liposomes and polymersomes, have only recently been exploited for DNA-mediated organization due to the preconception that their inherent flexibility interferes with the creation of defined structures.<br/>Here we present our approach to overcome these limitations, by manipulating molecular factors such as compartment membrane composition and DNA surface density, thereby controlling the size and stability of the resulting DNA-linked compartment clusters. These clusters attach selectively to the cell surface, exhibit <i>in vivo</i> stability and lack of toxicity in a zebrafish model. To display the breadth of therapeutic applications attainable with our system, two main applications will be highlighted where medically relevant enzymes were encapsulated within the inner compartments. Our approach opens a new gateway towards modifying and expanding cellular functions by attaching such pre-organized soft DNA-mediated compartment clusters on cell surfaces for cell engineering or therapeutic applications.

DNA-driven nano-matchmaking: Diverse behavior and applications of tethered polymeric compartments

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.