Photoswitchable architecture transformation of a DNA-hybrid assembly at the microscopic and macroscopic scale. Issue 11 (2nd March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simeth, Nadja A.; de Mendoza, Paula; Dubach, Victor R. A.; Stuart, Marc C. A.; Smith, Julien W.; Kudernac, Tibor; Browne, Wesley R.; Feringa, Ben L.
• Is Part Of: Chemical science. Volume 13:Issue 11(2022)
• Page Start: 3263
• Page End: 3272
• Publication Date: 2022-03-02
• Subjects: Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540.5
• DOI: 10.1039/d1sc06490h
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2041-6520

Abstract

Abstract : Molecular recognition-driven self-assembly employing single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) as a template is a promising approach to access complex architectures from simple building blocks. Abstract : Molecular recognition-driven self-assembly employing single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) as a template is a promising approach to access complex architectures from simple building blocks. Oligonucleotide-based nanotechnology and soft-materials benefit from the high information storage density, self-correction, and memory function of DNA. Here we control these beneficial properties with light in a photoresponsive biohybrid hydrogel, adding an extra level of function to the system. An ssDNA template was combined with a complementary photo-responsive unit to reversibly switch between various functional states of the supramolecular assembly using a combination of light and heat. We studied the structural response of the hydrogel at both the microscopic and macroscopic scale using a combination of UV-vis absorption and CD spectroscopy, as well as fluorescence, transmission electron, and atomic force microscopy. The hydrogels grown from these supramolecular self-assembly systems show remarkable shape-memory properties and imprinting shape-behavior while the macroscopic shape of the materials obtained can be further manipulated by irradiation.