Researchers demonstrate the intricate interactions between
single-stranded DNA sequences and carbon nanotubes
BUSAN, South Korea,
July 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have emerged as promising
candidates for applications in biotechnology and nanoelectronics
due to their exceptional physical and chemical properties. Despite
their potential, challenges like insolubility and toxicity have
hindered their widespread use. Prior studies have been
investigating diverse strategies to functionalize and modify the
surfaces of SWCNTs to overcome these challenges.
In a recent study, researchers from the Pusan National University led by Professor Sanghwa Jeong, Assistant Professor in the School
of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, have attempted to fill this
gap. This study has gone beyond conventional techniques by
employing high-throughput screening methods to elucidate the
relationship between DNA sequences and their binding affinity to
carbon nanotubes. It focused on optimizing the binding affinity and
stability of these constructs through advanced sequence design and
molecular dynamics simulations. This recent study was published in
the journal of Advanced Science on 25th
June 2024. Discussing the background
of their study Dr. Jeong explains, "Researchers have been
exploring various strategies to engineer SWCNT surfaces to overcome
the challenges of limited applications owing to insolubility and
potential toxicity. One promising approach is the use of
single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) as a wrapping surfactant for
SWCNTs."
The researchers employed a rigorous methodology to ensure
precise characterization and optimization of single-stranded DNA
(ssDNA)-SWCNT complexes. Initially, a diverse random 30-nucleotide
(nt) ssDNA library underwent iterative rounds of screening to
identify high-affinity sequences.
Computational modeling, particularly molecular dynamics
simulations, provided insights into the structural dynamics of the
SWCNT constructs. Furthermore, the researchers used several
machine-learning models to understand the pattern of sequences that
affect binding affinity. They have successfully created a freely
accessible online service that predicts the binding affinity of
ssDNA sequences to SWCNTs. These integrated approaches not only
validated the experimental findings but also guided the design of
high-performance ssDNA-SWCNT constructs.
The findings revealed significant advancements in the stability
and functionality of ssDNA-SWCNT complexes. High-affinity 30-nt
ssDNA sequences, rich in adenine and cytosine, exhibited superior
binding strength, validated through surfactant displacement
experiments. Molecular dynamics simulations highlighted the
formation of stable intramolecular hydrogen bonds near the SWCNT
surface, underscoring their enhanced structural integrity. The
machine-learning models effectively predicted the binding
affinities of ssDNA sequences, further supporting the design of the
tailored ssDNA-SWCNT constructs.
Moreover, the study demonstrated notable improvements in the
resistance of these complexes to enzymatic degradation compared to
free ssDNA, making them highly suitable for long-term biological
applications.
In conclusion, the development of high-affinity ssDNA-SWCNT
constructs marks a significant advancement in nanobiotechnology.
The exceptional characteristics of ssDNA-SWCNTs make them ideal
candidates for cell or tissue-specific drug delivery systems as
well as the development of high-performance nano electronic
devices.
Dr. Jeong concludes, "Our study not only makes a substantial
contribution to our understanding of the interplay between ssDNA
and SWCNTs but also offers practical avenues for harnessing these
interactions in a wide range of advanced technologies. In the
future, developing nanomaterials and devices with enhanced
stability will show promise in driving innovation in
nanoelectronics and biotechnology."
Reference
Title of original paper: Systematic
Selection of High Affinity ssDNA Sequences to Carbon Nanotubes
Journal: Advanced Science
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202308915
About the institute
Website:
https://www.pusan.ac.kr/eng/Main.do
Contact:
Jae-Eun Lee
82 51 510 7928
380885@email4r.com
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SOURCE Pusan National University