Adaptable DNA interactions regulate surface triggered self assembly

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates how surface-triggered DNA interactions can selectively control colloidal self-assembly, enabling applications in layered material fabrication and biosensing through signal amplification.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method for surface-induced selective self-assembly using competitive DNA interactions, with potential for biosensing and material manufacturing.

Findings

Surface interactions can trigger selective self-assembly.

DNA interactions enable signal amplification.

Potential applications in biosensing and layered materials.

Abstract

DNA-mediated multivalent interactions between colloidal particles have been extensively applied for their ability to program bulk phase behaviour and dynamic processes. Exploiting the competition between different types of DNA-DNA bonds, here we experimentally demonstrate the selective triggering of colloidal self-assembly in the presence of a functionalised surface, which induces changes in particle-particle interactions. Besides its relevance to the manufacturing of layered materials with controlled thickness, the intrinsic signal-amplification features of the proposed interaction scheme make it valuable for biosensing applications.