
AFM images of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) attached to rectangular DNA-origami. Specific binding sites are pre-programmed within the DNA template with a sequence complementary to the one attached to AuNPs.
Research Description
DNA-nanostructures such as DNA-origami can serve as versatile nanobreadboards in which various nanocompoents can be attached at specific places within the template. In this research project, we aim to develop efficient methods to use these assemblies for plasmonic and electronic applications. Below is a schematic of the process involved on the fabrication of DNA metalic nanostructures. There are two main steps involved: a) Origami self-assembly with pre-programmed binding sites and b) nanoparticles attachment and subsequent metallization. A highlight of our work can be found at Nanowerk.
a) Origami Formation

b) Nanocomponent attachment and subsequent metal deposition

Some Recent Publications:
Connecting the Nanodots: Programmable Nanofabrication of Fused Metal Shapes on DNA Templates Nano Letters (2011) Self-Assembling DNA Templates for Programmed Artificial Biomineralization Soft Matter (2011)
Links:
Gleb Finkelstein's Group
Thom LaBean's Group
Mauricio Pilo-Pais' homepage