Molecular engineering using structural DNA nanotechnology is an advanced technique for producing nanometer scale architectures and devices. Their geometric versatility and capacity to precisely organize ligands (e.g. biomolecules) on the nanometer scale makes them ideal candidates for development of advanced drug delivery devices that could overcome limitations of conventional nanomaterials. Yet we have found the stability of DNA nanostructures to be extremely poor in biological environments such as fresh plasma. To overcome this, we aimed to encapsulate them within lipid bilayers, mimicking the macrostructure of virus particles, whose lipid membranes provide a barrier to the external environment. We have developed a method for directed assembly of engineered lipid bilayers onto DNA nanostructures, resulting in tight wrapping of the structure and protection from external factors. Our results provide a basis for development of novel nano-scale devices that can be used for a variety of medical applications, such as improved drug delivery.

Directed assembly of lipid bilayers onto 3D DNA nanostructures

244th National Meeting (2012)

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