A DNA molecular printer capable of programmable positioning and patterning in two dimensions

Sci Robot. 2022 Apr 20;7(65):eabn5459. doi: 10.1126/scirobotics.abn5459. Epub 2022 Apr 20.

Abstract

Nanoscale manipulation and patterning usually require costly and sensitive top-down techniques such as those used in scanning probe microscopies or in semiconductor lithography. DNA nanotechnology enables exploration of bottom-up fabrication and has previously been used to design self-assembling components capable of linear and rotary motion. In this work, we combine three independently controllable DNA origami linear actuators to create a nanoscale robotic printer. The two-axis positioning mechanism comprises a moveable gantry, running on parallel rails, threading a mobile sleeve. We show that the device is capable of reversibly positioning a write head over a canvas through the addition of signaling oligonucleotides. We demonstrate "write" functionality by using the head to catalyze a local DNA strand-exchange reaction, selectively modifying pixels on a canvas. This work demonstrates the power of DNA nanotechnology for creating nanoscale robotic components and could find application in surface manufacturing, biophysical studies, and templated chemistry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • DNA* / chemistry
  • Nanotechnology* / methods
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Oligonucleotides
  • Printing

Substances

  • Oligonucleotides
  • DNA