Functionalized DNA nanostructures for templated biomineralization

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Mineralized tissues, such as teeth and bone, form through a multi-step mechanism guided by a complex mixture of proteins secreted by specialized cells. The exact mechanism through which the proteins template molecules to become highly organized and eventually transform into a mineralized tissue is challenging to decipher because of the ever changing composition of the protein solution. A deeper understanding of mineralized tissue formation is essential for the development of a biomaterial capable of inducing self-healing in tooth and bone. The hypothesis of this grant is that the precise placement of molecules known to induce in mineralization onto a surface will yield a material that could potentially be used as a patch for inducing and controlling mineral crystal growth. One way to develop such a surface and to organize materials with nanometer precision is to use synthetic DNA lattices; the field of DNA Nanotechnology has put forth a plethora of DNA nanostructures that have been used to precisely organize other molecules. The objectives of this grant are: 1) to couple synthetic DNA to molecules known to induce mineralization; 2) to incorporate these modified DNA strands into DNA lattices; and 3) to study which configuration and composition best induces the formation of crystals with similar properties as naturally occurring minerals. The long-term goal of this project is to re-generate damaged mineralized tissues by placing functionalized DNA patches that can induce natural tissue growth. A successful completion of these objectives will yield a deeper understanding of how biomineralization occurs. This knowledge is essential for the development of a material that could be used for natural tooth and bone regeneration. In addition, this project will provide training for highly qualified personnel in nanomedicine, a growing field in North America.