Synthesis and Assembly of xDNA: Toward Unnatural DNA Nanostructures (Chemical Sciences)
Abstract
The objective of the proposed effort is to explore the synthesis, structure, and assembly properties of a designed genetic molecule: size-expanded DNA (xDNA), which retains the major assembly features of DNA, but adds a number of important attributes as a result of its novel base pair architecture , which is expanded in size by the addition of benzene. The proposed work will encompass three research aims: Research Aim 1. Defining the structural units of xDNA. This aim will investigate the physical and structural characteristics of the most basic elements of expanded DNA - helices and turns (loops). The knowledge of these properties will enable the incorporation of size-expanded helices into larger functional structures in a reliable and predictable way. Research Aim 2. New synthesis and assembly strategies: toward longer and larger xDNA structures. In this aim, chemical and enzymatic strategies with be investigated for assembling short xDNA duplexes into longer oligomer lengths and into larger designed nanostructures. Research Aim 3. Structure and properties of a doubly expanded genetic set: xxDNA. This aim will begin to investigate whether it is possible to extend the concept of size-expanded DNA further, to a double expansion of the base pair size (xxDNA). If successful, this offers the possibility of yet greater enhancements in stability, rigidity, fluorescence, and charge transfer than are offered by xDNA.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2017
- Source ID
- W911NF1510195
Entities
People
- Eric T. Kool
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Stanford University
- United States Army