Molecularly Regulated Reversible DNA Polymerization.
Natural polymers are synthesized and decomposed under physiological conditions. However, it is challenging to develop synthetic polymers whose formation and reversibility can be both controlled under physiological conditions. Here we show that both linear and branched DNA polymers can be synthesized via molecular hybridization in aqueous solutions, on the particle surface, and in the extracellular matrix (ECM) without the involvement of any harsh conditions. More importantly, these polymers can be effectively reversed to dissociate under the control of molecular triggers. Since nucleic acids can be conjugated with various molecules or materials, we anticipate that molecularly regulated reversible DNA polymerization holds potential for broad biological and biomedical applications.
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, 202 Hallowell Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
Niancao
N
Chen
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, 202 Hallowell Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
Xuechen
X
Shi
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, 232 Hallowell Building, University Park, PA, 16802, USA. yxw30@psu.edu.
Yong
Y
Wang
D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D004247:DNA / Q000737:chemistry*; D004587:Electrophoresis, Agar Gel; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal; D058105:Polymerization
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D004247:DNA
DNA; hybridization; polymers; reversible polymerization; self-assembly