Biologically inspired synthetic materials have led to novel technologies due of their ability to sense, influence, or adapt to their environment. One way to build these materials and devices is to utilize the high sequence specificity and innate biocompatibility of DNA. While once considered as a material useful for only storing genetic information, DNA-based devices are now being realized as molecular tools in fields such as therapeutics, diagnostics, regenerative medicine, and soft robotics. In this dissertation, we investigate the use of DNA to build programmable tools to control self-assembly, implement molecular computation, and direct material change processes.
DNA origami nanostructures are useful tools for controlling the spatial patterns of proteins, nanoparticles, and fluorophores because they contain hundreds of independently functionalizable locations that can be engineered with nanoscale precision. However, the addressable surface area is currently limited by the size of single origami structures, and efficient, high-yield self-assembly of multiple origami into higher-order assemblies continues to be a challenge. To investigate the factors important for heterogeneous self-assembly of multiple origami, we experimentally measure the equilibrium distribution of four origami tiles in the monomer, intermediate, and final tetramer states as a function of temperature. We find that the thermodynamics of the self-assembly process is determined by the binding interface between origami. Simulations of the assembly kinetics suggest assembly occurs primarily via hierarchical pathways.
Next, we engineer a DNA-based timer circuit that can be used in computational devices for molecular release or material control. The circuit releases target DNA sequences into solution at a programmable time with a tunable, constant rate. Multiple timer circuits can operate simultaneously, each releasing their target sequences at independent rates and times.
We further develop the utility of the timer and similar DNA-based circuits as a means to control molecular events in biological environments, such as serum-supplemented cell media, where DNA-degrading nucleases can reduce the functional stability and lifetime of DNA-based devices. By implementing DNA circuit-protective design principles and by adding screening molecules to reduce nuclease activity, the functional lifetime of simple DNA circuits can be significantly increased. We develop a model by fitting parameters for reactions between nucleases and simple DNA circuits. Using the model, we can qualitatively predict the behavior of more complex circuits: multiple circuits in series and circuits containing competitive reactions.
Finally, we investigate how DNA-based circuits can be used to trigger the high-degree swelling response of DNA-crosslinked metamorphic hydrogels. By coupling signal amplification to the triggering process, we demonstrate modular control over the timescale and degree of swelling. Further, we show control over the identity of the trigger molecule using molecular translators and computational controllers capable of converting complex chemical inputs into mechanical actuation
