Label as you fold: methyltransferase-assisted functionalization of DNA nanostructures
Christian Heck, Dmitry Torchinsky, Gil Nifker, Felix Gularek, Yael Michaeli, Elmar G. Weinhold, Yuval Ebenstein
Abstract
Non-DNA labels are key components for the construction of functional DNA nanostructures. Here, we present a method to graft covalent labels onto DNA origami nanostructures in an enzymatic one-pot reaction. The DNA methyltransferase M.TaqI labels the DNA nanostructures with azide groups, which serve as universal attachment points via click chemistry. Direct labeling with fluorescent dyes is also demonstrated. The procedure yields structures with high fluorescence intensities and narrow intensity distributions. In combination with UV crosslinking it enables the creation of temperature-stable, intense fluorescent beacons.
Topics & Concepts
DNAFluorescenceSurface modificationNanostructureDNA methyltransferaseDNA origamiClick chemistryCovalent bondChemistryNanotechnologyCombinatorial chemistryMethyltransferaseMaterials scienceBiophysicsBiochemistryBiologyOrganic chemistryPhysicsMethylationQuantum mechanicsPhysical chemistryAdvanced biosensing and bioanalysis techniquesBiosensors and Analytical DetectionRNA Interference and Gene Delivery