title: New branched DNA constructs.
abstract: The Watson-Crick base pairing of DNA is an advantageous phenomenon that can be exploited when using DNA as a scaffold for directed self-organization of nanometer-sized objects. Several reports have appeared in the literature that describe the generation of branched DNA (bDNA) with variable numbers of arms that self-assembles into predesigned architectures. These bDNA units are generated by using cleverly designed rigid crossover DNA molecules. Alternatively, bDNA can be generated by using synthetic branch points derived from either nucleoside or non-nucleoside building blocks. Branched DNA has scarcely been explored for use in nanotechnology or from self-assembling perspectives. Herein, we wish to report our results for the synthesis, characterization, and assembling properties of asymmetrical bDNA molecules that are able to generate linear and circular bDNA constructs. Our strategy for the generation of bDNA is based on a branching point that makes use of a novel protecting-group strategy. The bDNA units were generated by means of automated DNA synthesis methods and were used to generate novel objects by employing chemical and biological techniques. The entities generated might be useful building blocks for DNA-based nanobiotechnology.
authors.affiliation: Fachbereich Chemie, Universität Konstanz, Universitätsstrasse 10, M 726, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
authors.forename: Madhavaiah
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Chandra
authors.forename: Sascha
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Keller
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Gloeckner
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Bornemann
authors.forename: Andreas
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Marx
mesh_terms: D001331:Automation; D020029:Base Pairing; D001483:Base Sequence; D001709:Biotechnology; D002942:Circular Dichroism; D004247:DNA / Q000138:chemical synthesis*; D004591:Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; D008956:Models, Chemical; D036103:Nanotechnology; D009690:Nucleic Acid Conformation; D009841:Oligonucleotides / Q000138:chemical synthesis
chemical_list: D009841:Oligonucleotides; D004247:DNA