Direct DNA conjugation to star polymers for controlled reversible assemblies

Bioconjug Chem. 2011 Oct 19;22(10):2030-7. doi: 10.1021/bc200240q. Epub 2011 Sep 13.

Abstract

Polymer biomolecule hybrids represent a powerful class of highly customizable nanomaterials. Here, we report star-polymer conjugates with DNA using a "ligandless" Cu(I) promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition click reaction. The multivalency of the star-polymer architecture allows for the concomitant conjugation of other molecules along with the DNA, and the conjugation method provides control over the DNA orientation. The star-polymer DNA nanoparticles are shown to assemble into higher-order nanoassemblies through hybridization. Further, we show that the DNA strands can be utilized in controlled disassembly of the nanostructures.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Alkynes / chemistry*
  • Azides / chemistry*
  • Catalysis
  • Click Chemistry
  • Copper / chemistry
  • Cyclization
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Polymers / chemistry*

Substances

  • Alkynes
  • Azides
  • Polymers
  • Copper
  • DNA