The path towards functional nanoparticle-DNA origami composites

Abstract Nanoparticles (NPs) hold tremendous promise for diverse applications in fields such as imaging, sensing, nanorobotics, and for optical and electronic materials. These applications often require precisely controlled interactions between multiple NPs or between NPs and other components. Hence, the organization of NPs into composite materials has been an active area of research. DNA origami nanotechnology offers a promising path forward with unparalleled control over complex nanoscale geometry and functionalization, programmed dynamic and mechanical properties, stimulus response to local or externally applied triggers, and capability of assembly into higher-order 1D, 2D, or 3D materials. Furthermore, DNA origami self-assembly is rapid and scalable, overcoming limitations of top-down NP organization methods. In this review, we outline the challenges, recent advances, and opportunities for NP-DNA origami composites. We go into depth on aspects of DNA origami that enhance materials function, such as dynamic actuation, and we discuss practical aspects involved in making NP-DNA composites. Whereas the vast majority of research in NP-DNA origami composite synthesis focuses on gold NPs, these methods can be generalized to other DNA-coated NPs, and therefore more broadly establish a path towards functional NP-DNA origami composites. We envision this review will serve as a guide to materials science and engineering researchers to pursue new materials based on NP-DNA composites.