Self-assembly of DNA-functionalized colloids

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent theoretical and experimental advances in the self-assembly of DNA-functionalized colloids, emphasizing simulation studies and the factors influencing crystalline structure formation.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of how particle geometry, DNA grafting density, and sequence choices affect self-assembly, highlighting recent simulation insights.

Findings

Simulation studies elucidate factors influencing crystalline structures.

Understanding of kinetic bottlenecks in self-assembly.

Advances in designing long-range ordered structures.

Abstract

Colloidal particles grafted with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) chains can self-assemble into a number of different crystalline structures, where hybridization of the ssDNA chains creates links between colloids stabilizing their structure. Depending on the geometry and the size of the particles, the grafting density of the ssDNA chains, and the length and choice of DNA sequences, a number of different crystalline structures can be fabricated. However, understanding how these factors contribute synergistically to the self-assembly process of DNA-functionalized nano- or micro-sized particles remains an intensive field of research. Moreover, the fabrication of long-range structures due to kinetic bottlenecks in the self-assembly are additional challenges. Here, we discuss the most recent advances from theory and experiment with particular focus put on recent simulation studies.