Development of Magnetic Handshake DNA*

A long-standing problem in nanoscale engineering is to mimic the capability of biological systems, such as DNA, to contain information and replicate. We approach this problem using building blocks based on magnetic handshake materials [1] - a scale-invariant platform using programmable lock-and-key interactions to guide self-assembly. Specifically, we have created centimeter-sized panels with programmed magnetic domains, where interactions analogous to Watson-Crick pairing and the modifiable DNA backbone bonding allow panels to attach linearly onto a base chain when agitated with a shaker table. After a new base is added, the application of an external magnetic field rotates magnetic dipoles, strengthening the backbone interaction. Repeating this cycle replicates the base chain. Applying a higher shaking amplitude separates the two chains, enabling repeated replication. Due to scale-invariance, technologies developed on the centimeter scale carry over to the micron scale. When combined with theory on the information capacity of magnetic handshake materials, there is large design potential; for example, this platform could be used to create polymers capable of metabolic function and much more.

References:
[1] Niu, et al. PNAS, 116 (2019)