Single-molecule investigations give insight into transient intermediates, alternate chemical pathways, and dynamic behaviour of molecules that cannot be discerned from time-averaged results of the bulk. At the single molecule level complex reaction pathways can be analysed and understood. DNA nanostructures are commonly used as a scaffold in single molecule reactions as the predictability of Watson-Crick base pairing allows functional groups and biomolecules to be precisely organized. Single-molecule experiments typically focus on biological problems, and there are many examples of investigations taking advantage of DNA, however, DNA nanostructures are seldom used for single-molecule chemical investigations despite their many benefits. Here we have designed DNA origami to facilitate the observation of chemical reactions at the single molecule level by monitoring changes in light-emitting functionalities with fluorescence microscopy or by observing a physical change with AFM. Furthermore, by covalently attaching the structures to a surface we can forego the Mg2+, which is typically used to physically bind the DNA structure on a surface, allowing flexibility in reaction conditions. We envision the use of this platform for a variety of single molecule investigations, particularly regarding chemical catalysis.

Single-molecule chemical investigations on DNA nanostructures

251st National Meeting (2016)

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