DNA-based micelle for ‘bar-coded’ molecular switching and bio-recognition

An amphiphilic DNA hybrid molecule that can be designed to self-assamble into nanoscaled micellar architectures was constructed. Assembly of the conjugates into supramolecular structures was achieved by a simple mixing process.  Such designed structure could self-assemble into micellar architectures that hide a recognition signal, but also to contain toe-hold sequences which allow selective unveiling of the ligand on addition of a competing conjugate strand, thereby realizing its nucleic acid responsive property.  In conclusion, the DNA based micelle can be unpacked in a pre-programmable manner, thereby revealing the previously shielded ligands which are then available to act as targeting moieties. Such a “smart” property of dynamic switching in DNA materials design suggests that materials of this type could be useful as both diagnostics and therapeutics.