Molecular materials, sensors and circuits with nanometre resolution

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We will use the Feasibility Account to explore how far and how fast new approaches to the DNA-programmed assembly of information-rich materials can be developed, leapfrogging incremental developments and establishing new research areas. We propose an adventurous combination of high-level DNA nanostructure design with state-of-the-art synthetic methodology to create designer materials that can be functionalized with nanometre precision and, through the reversibility of hybridisation and secondary structure formation, are responsive to external stimuli. We will synthesize chemically modified nucleosides bearing designer groups for electronics, biomolecule attachment and polymer-DNA hybrid material formation. Using the exquisite architectural control provided by DNA self-assembly, we will create nanostructures that incorporate these building blocks at programmable positions. We will focus on proof-of-concept experiments in areas covering molecular electronics, responsive materials and high-density sensor arrays.