PDNA as building blocks for membrane-guided self-assemblies

Different semi-synthetic PDNAs (protein–DNA complexes), which encompass a protein core engineered from the cytochrome b₅ scaffold, an embedded tuneable redox cofactor, a synthetic linker and a large oligonucleotide, were designed, synthesized and purified to homogeneity. These building blocks can be reversibly attached to Ni-DOGS {1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-[N(5-amino-1-carboxypentyl)iminodiacetic acid]succinyl}-doped supported membranes through a metal chelate bridge with the protein part and be polymerized in a fully controllable manner using a solid-phase synthesis strategy and a stepwise addition of suitable complementary oligonucleotides. The resulting structures could recreate a large range of regular distribution of patterned redox and absorbing centres separated by fully tuneable distances and geometry. Kinetic parameters for the self-assembly of building blocks were determined using SPRI (surface plasmon resonance imagery). Structures of resulting nano-objects were characterized using gel electrophoresis and single molecule approaches following decoration of assemblies with quantum dots.