Error-proof programmable self-assembly of DNA-nanoparticle clusters

TL;DR

This paper proposes a theoretical scheme for error-proof self-assembly of DNA-functionalized nanoparticles into specific clusters, utilizing stretchable linkers and soft repulsion to suppress errors and glassy states.

Contribution

It introduces a new theoretical approach combining flexible DNA linkers and soft potentials to enable nearly error-free nanoparticle self-assembly.

Findings

Suppression of glassy behavior in nanoparticle assembly.

Identification of conditions for error-proof cluster formation.

Analysis of jamming phase diagram and error probabilities.

Abstract

We study theoretically a new generic scheme of programmable self-assembly of nanoparticles into clusters of desired geometry. The problem is motivated by the feasibility of highly selective DNA-mediated interactions between colloidal particles. By analyzing both a simple generic model and a more realistic description of a DNA-colloidal system, we demonstrate that it is possible to suppress the glassy behavior of the system, and to make the self-assembly nearly error-proof. This regime requires a combination of stretchable interparticle linkers (e.g. sufficiently long DNA), and a soft repulsive potential. The jamming phase diagram and the error probability are computed for several types of clusters. The prospects for the experimental implementation of our scheme are also discussed. PACS numbers: 81.16.Dn, 87.14.Gg, 36.40.Ei